Russian pagan folk metal band Arkona has dropped a chilling new single, “Cectpa” (English: Sister), on May 6, 2025, following their 2023 album Kob’ via Napalm Records. The track, accompanied by a music video, delves into a darker, doom-laden sound, featuring solemn organ melodies, heavy riffs, and Masha “Scream” Arkhipova’s ethereal vocals. The song, a non-album single, explores deep mental anguish through the metaphor of a twin sister embodying suffering, culminating in the protagonist’s fiery demise. The cover art by Rotten Fantom mirrors this dark philosophical tone. Order Kob’ at lnk.to/ARKONA_KOB.
Formed in 2002 in Moscow, Arkona—Masha (vocals/keyboards/percussion), Sergei “Lazar” (guitars), Ruslan “Kniaz” (bass), Alexander Smirnov (drums), and Vladimir “Volk” (wind instruments)—blends Slavic mythology with blackened metal. “Cectpa” echoes the band’s folkloric roots, reminiscent of tracks like “Strela” from their catalog, while pushing into doom territory. After touring with Patriarkh in 2023 and playing Summer Breeze 2024, Arkona kicks off their Summer Rituals tour on June 26 in the Czech Republic at Basinfire Fest, with stops in Romania, Hungary, and more. For fans of their mystical intensity, “Cectpa” is a haunting addition. Stream it now!