REVIEW: TRIA PRIMA - Three Primes of Alchemy

 

TRIA PRIMA - Three Primes of Alchemy

Lunatic Prod

There's a fresh and intriguing addition to the metal scene: TRIA PRIMA. This Ukrainian band brings a mystical twist to death metal with their unique style, which they call alchemical death metal. Let's explore their story and their music.

The Band's Origins and Line-up:

TRIA PRIMA was born in September 2024 in Zhitomir, Ukraine. The band is made up of experienced musicians with deep roots in the Ukrainian metal scene:

- Ruslan Hrytsiuta on vocals and guitars, who also writes the lyrics. He's known from his work with Mankind Wrath.

- Jury Sinitsky on drums, who has an impressive history with bands like Drudkh, Blood of Kingu, Lucifugum, Лютомисл, Violent Omen, All Dies, Definition Sane, and Mankind Wrath.

- Serhii D. D. Bondar on bass and backing vocals, also responsible for songwriting and the band's overall concept. He's been part of Bestial Invasion, Cosmic Jaguar, Lord Erektus, and previously Violent Omen and Crucifix.

They introduced themselves to the world in 2024 with their single “Solar Sulfur,” which is also featured on their latest EP.

Alchemical Inspirations:

The band's name and themes are deeply rooted in alchemy. In alchemical philosophy, the "Tria Prima" or "Three Primes" are fundamental substances believed to be the building blocks of all matter:

1. Sulfur: Represents the soul, combustibility, and volatility. It's associated with the mind and spirit.

2. Mercury: Symbolizes the spirit, fluidity, and changeability. Mercury bridges the higher and lower realms, embodying transformation and adaptability.

3. Salt: Denotes the body, solidity, and stability. Salt is linked to the material and physical aspects of life.

These elements are central to alchemical transformation and the pursuit of the philosopher's stone, a concept that infuses TRIA PRIMA's music with depth and mysticism.

Three Primes of Alchemy” EP Review:

The debut EP, “Three Primes of Alchemy”, features four tracks:

1. Solar Sulfur

2. Philosopher's Mercury

3. Witchcraft Salt

4. Deathhammer - A cover of ASPHYX's iconic song.

The band's core sound is rooted in melodic death metal, with bursts of modern thrash metal. The lyrics, inspired by alchemy, add a layer of mysticism to their music.

What makes TRIA PRIMA stand out is their blend of symphonic metal elements and the occasional operatic female vocals by Anira. This combination adds a unique and captivating dimension to their sound. Additionally, E. Maestro's guitar solos are both skillful and melodic, providing intricate details that enrich the songs.

The result is an EP that offers an otherworldly experience filled with mysticism and grandeur. The only band that comes to mind for comparison is the Greek band SEPTICFLESH.

Conclusion

While I might not be an expert in the extreme metal scene, based on my taste and instinct, I believe TRIA PRIMA deserves your attention. Their introduction to the metal scene with this release is nothing short of impressive. Give them a listen; you might just find yourself enchanted by their alchemical soundscapes.

Nick Parastatidis