This is a fascinating act. Lakota themed black metal act, Maȟpíya Lúta, translating to Red Cloud, a Oglala chief of the 19th century. As the name entails, the rest of the album is in the Lakota language and what I could only assume is an honor to Red Cloud him self. The music reflects such, having a sense of honor and pride as well as a furious hatred as Red Cloud him self is most famously known for waging a furious war with the US army at the time, even having the war being named after him.
The music at hand though, is quite the pleasure to listen to. A mixture of that furious and raw black metal but wrapped with a folkish sensibilities thanks to the melodic vocal style and the rather notable guitar passages that for sure remind one of Lakota music of old. The album as a whole feels rather somber, the raw production give it this nostalgic feel for longing of the past, yet the furiosity of the drums, guitars and vocals keeps it all balanced. There are also some softer moments, like the last track, which is also the title track, starts with a soft guitar strumming but breaks into this cacophony of furious sound. Its beautifully done. As I’ve mentioned before, the guitars range from somber to having this atmosphere of pride and honor. Really capturing the mystique that the Lakota people are known for, especially Red Cloud him self. While not really being comprehendable, one can only assume that the lyrics are in the Lakota language them selves as all the titles are in the language its self. But, the delivery is there, though rather typical of the genre. Shrieking vocals that blend in well with the lo-fi guitars and rapid blast beats. Personally I feel as though the guitars are the main focus of the album.
There are mixtures of iconic Native American style melodies with black metal and interchange between the two freely. One would think that it doesn’t mix well but they’re able to execute it wonderfully and I think better than most of the other ‘raw lo-fi Native American’ themed black metal (yes that’s a thing apparently and its a mouthful.). There is something about this one compared to others that feels more authentic in its approach and song writing. It doesn’t use the whole native aesthetic as a gimmick. It feels honest and true to those who wrote it, which is what drew me in immediately and left me wanting for more.
All in all its a rather compact album, only sporting three long tracks totaling at around 31 minutes, it works out well and doesn’t over stay its welcome. Its a very solid debut release and hopefully more will come in the future, as the act is rather mysterious and there isn’t much info out there. But what we do have is a gem I think every black metal fan should give a shot for sure.