The split opens with “Klucz Do Istnienia,” a fairly straightforward black metal track from Arkona. Reverbed rhythm guitars are accented by cleaner tremolo riffs that provide a hellish and heady atmosphere. Constant blast beats and double bass propel this beast forward to its end, which is finished off by out of tune violin. There are occasional sprinkles of synth, and while they don’t go overboard, their presence was unneeded. Still, it’s a good by the numbers track that doesn’t overreach. The highlight is Armagog’s vocals. They’re a typical full-throated rasp but because the song uses Polish lyrics and they are clearly enunciated, it sounds like he’s utilizing some chaotic demon language (so yeah, Polish).

“Zaraza” makes up Illness’s portion of the split. Beginning with energetic chugging riffs that are near irresistible to keep from headbang to, the song quickly changes to evil, grinding tremolo riffs that sweep you up in their undertow. Admittedly, this isn’t anything new, but it’s done so well you can’t help but like it. And then the piano break comes in. All of a sudden, the guitars just fade out and are replaced by pianos. This only lasts for half a minute, but it’s really, really irritating. I could probably get over that if not for the following two minutes. Synth pops in from out of nowhere. And it’s not majestic or ethereal like good synth. It’s cheap, twinkly space sounding synth that’s completely out of place. I’m all for experimentation under one condition – that it’s good. This is not good. This just reeks of being strange just for the sake of being strange and totally kills the song. Very disappointing.

As far as splits go, this is one you can pass on. Arkona’s half is certainly the better of the two, but even that’s just decent. If you don’t know either band you’re not missing out. If you are a fan of either of the bands, however, you can wait for the inevitable compilation that contains this material. This isn’t worth your money.