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Personnel: Anna Maria Olchawa (vocals & all instruments)
Language: Polish
Release date: May 29th, 2025
Label: Pagan Records
Polish one-woman project Ols returns with her fifth full-length album Poświaty. Known for blending neofolk, post-black, trip-hop, and gothic influences, Anna Maria Olchawa continues to shape a sound rooted in emotion, folklore, and shadowed beauty. Each release reveals more of her distinct and personal sonic world.
Poświaty makes a strong first impression with its dark and emotional mood. From the beginning, the music feels deep and full of feeling, with each track adding something new. The songs flow smoothly and create a calm but powerful atmosphere. As the album goes on, it becomes more interesting, and the sound pulls you in more and more. It leaves you with the sense that something special is happening, even if it is not always easy to describe.
The album cover reflects the dark, immersive mood of the music. Its unsettling and detailed design creates a sense of mystery and self-reflection, pulling listeners into the same deep emotional space found in the songs. The visual atmosphere perfectly matches the album’s mix of shadowy textures and soulful melodies, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
Poświaty builds its atmosphere through deep bass, flowing melodies, and tribal-style drumming that adds energy to the music. Soft, calm moments give way to heavier sections, with guitars and percussion creating contrast and depth. Some melodies return throughout the album, making the sound feel connected and familiar while still evolving. It keeps things interesting from start to finish without feeling scattered or repetitive.
Poświaty uses vocals as a central force, shaping the album’s emotion and depth. The singing ranges from soft, melancholic tones to powerful chanting, giving each track its own feeling. At times, the voices blend like a choir, creating an eerie, layered effect. In other moments, they feel raw and personal, pulling the listener closer. The balance between these styles makes the vocals an essential part of the album’s atmosphere, guiding the mood without overpowering the music.
The production on the album brings everything to life with richness and clarity. Beyond the layered instrumentation, it adds depth through well-placed ambient elements that match the mood and setting of each song, like cinematic sound effects that blend naturally with the storytelling. These touches do not just decorate the music. They enhance the journey, making the whole experience more vivid and immersive.
Despite me not knowing Polish, the vibes and feelings the album left are clear. The music projects its themes through shifting moods, layered instrumentation, and a deep, immersive atmosphere.
Poświaty is an immersive and powerful album, blending rich sounds, haunting vocals, and deep themes into a compelling experience.
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Enjoying nature |
Emotional struggle |
Music while working |
Yes, I will surely come back to this album.
Article’s featured photo by: Agnieszka Kowalska
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