Master’s Hammer back on track! The Czech black metal group released a new single, entitled “Environmental Grief” on 28 October 2026. Political satire and environmental despair take centre stage, tackling issues that remain as relevant as ever. But with this new track comes a question: can art become a form of creative resistance?
Official logo
© Master’s Hammer
Political Disgust Turned into Creative Energy
“Environmental Grief” depicts political authority in grotesque terms, following a megalomaniacal figure whose ambitions extend into space while the world he leaves behind falls into decay. Its lyrics combine absurd imagery, historical references and biting mockery, with the recurring refrain “Nic nebude jako dřív”, meaning “Nothing will be as it was before”, reinforcing the song’s sense of irreversible decline.
The band members have also shared a statement on their Bandcamp profile explaining the frustration behind the release:
“The scum in power right now are already beyond what we can stomach aesthetically. We’ve gotta turn this fucking disgust into creative fuel. That’s why we believe in the power of art, and nothing’s ever gonna be the same again!”.
The statement reflects the confrontational spirit of the single, framing artistic expression as a response to political disillusionment. The song’s title, “Environmental Grief”, further connects this criticism with the degradation of the natural world.
Official artwork for “Environmental Grief”
© Master’s Hammer
Behind the Single
According to their official Bandcamp profile, the music and lyrics were written by František Štorm, with Honza Kapák contributing the lead guitar parts. The same source mentions that Necrocock provides the backing vocals.
“Environmental Grief” is available to stream and purchase through the Bandcamp profile of the band.
Master’s Hammer Through the Years
Master’s Hammer first entered the Czechoslovak underground scene in 1987. Over time, the band became one of the most influential acts in black metal, combining experimental elements with themes of occultism, spiritism and Czech traditions. Founded by František Štorm, the band built a reputation through a series of demos before releasing their debut full-length album, “Ritual.”, in 1991.
Their early catalogue continued with “Jilemnický okultista” in 1992 and “Šlágry” in 1995, before the band entered an extended hiatus. Master’s Hammer returned with “Mantras” in 2009, followed by “Vracejte konve na místo” in 2012, “Vagus Vetus” in 2014, “Formulæ” in 2016 and “Fascinator” in 2018.
After another period of inactivity, the band resumed activity in 2025 with “Maldorör Disco”. Their more recent releases include the singles “Karneval”, “Vision” and “Holubí letka”, all issued in 2026, leading up to the arrival of “Environmental Grief”.
The Musicians Behind the Single
František Štorm [vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards, drums];
Honza Kapák [lead guitars];
Necrocock [choirs].
Across the Online Sphere
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9mbxhF01-wNANBq4vYlo6w;
Bandcamp: https://mastershammer.bandcamp.com/;
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/01Ug80e1uX3An6w4wLdULd;
