Black metal band Šakal, hailing from Novi Sad(Serbia), released their second full-length on May 30th 2025. Titled II, the six track album continues the Serbian black metal band’s exploration of Slavic mythology and pagan themes. Following their 2022 debut, Jav, Prav, Nav, Šakal has refined their sound, offering a more mature and atmospheric experience. II delivers a sound that is uncompromising, powerful, and authentic. Rather than chasing trends, Šakal focuses on crafting a consistent and honest expression of their musical and cultural identity — raw, forceful, and rooted in tradition.
About the new album
II delves deeper into the band’s signature blend of raw black metal with melodic and atmospheric elements. The album’s production is notably clean and polished, allowing each instrument to shine without losing the genre’s inherent grit. Guitar riffs are sharp and tremolo-driven, complemented by occasional solos that enhance the dark ambiance. The bass adds depth, while the drums maintain a dynamic pace, shifting seamlessly between aggressive blasts and more subdued rhythms. Vocally, Šakal employs a mix of harsh, screeching tones and occasional clean passages, effectively conveying the album’s intense emotional landscape.
As with their debut, Šakal‘s lyrics in II draw heavily from Slavic mythology and pagan traditions. Tracks like Hrast and Groma Sin evoke ancient rituals and deities, immersing listeners in a world of ancestral reverence and mysticism. The band’s commitment to authentic cultural representation adds a layer of depth to the music, distinguishing them in the black metal scene. Undoubtedly, Hrast is a powerful opener that sets the tone with its atmospheric build-up and evocative lyrics. Also, Vučji dani is a standout track, showcasing the band’s ability to blend aggression with melody seamlessly. The closing track, U krvi leaves a lasting impression with its haunting melodies and intense delivery.
II solidifies Šakal‘s position in the Serbian black metal scene, demonstrating growth and a deeper understanding of their musical and thematic direction. While the album stays true to the band’s roots, it also pushes boundaries, offering a more refined and immersive experience. Fans of atmospheric and mythologically inspired black metal will find much to appreciate in this release.
Tracklist:
1. Hrast
2. Groma Sin
3. Kosti
4. Vučji dani
5. Spaljena zemlja
6. U krvi
