If you’re bored with the same old sounds and yearning to hear something a little bit different, you absolutely have to check out the latest album from Mongolian folk metal band Tengger Cavalry, “Cian Bi.” The record is named for an ancient nomadic tribe that emigrated into northern China to merge culturally with the locals much like the band merges the best of metal and folk music into a unique amalgam of sounds.
The band uses Mongolian overtone singing styles along with the violin, distorted guitars, and folk instruments to create something that is both powerful and beautiful. The album begins with an exquisite string instrumental “And Darkness Continues,” with a stirring yet eerie melody before going into a full throttle metal attack of “Cian-Bi (Fight Your Darkness.)” The record is full of tribal rhythms utilizing the Mongolian horsehead fiddle known as the Morin khuur and vocals that range from guttural shouts to haunting, soaring melodies. Lyrically the focus is historical, weaving tales of battles won and lost and ancient tribal wars. Driving rhythms dominate tracks like “Ride Into Grave and Glory (War Horse II) which are juxtaposed by the melodic tones of “Just Forgive.” The musicianship in this band is top notch and the production quality is beyond compare.
“Cian Bi” is both punishing and evocative. There really is nothing quite like it. Check it out today and embark on an innovative metal journey with Tengger Cavalry.
