Enigmatic instrumental folk duo Tabernis have released their debut album Seasons of the Dark Hive via Napalm Records, alongside new single and video ‘Apes Saltis’.
Tabernis might just be one of the most unique bands you’ll see and hear on RAMzine. If you are looking for something a bit different, these Beekeepers will give you a medieval folky feel that we genuinely enjoy. It reminds us of being in a medieval tavern, as we clearly have these types of memories.
Tabernis are two musicians known only as Noxifer and Umbrae, self-described as Beekeepers, who craft haunting medieval-inspired compositions using nothing but bagpipes and davul drum. Born out of a passion for history, the duo intertwine ancient tradition and dark mysticism, gifting melodies to the delicate art of beekeeping.
The band said: “The album came to life naturally, without ever forcing anything. We let the energies that live within us come out in an authentic way. We drew from cultures and musical styles from all eras, from everything that has inspired us through the ages, while keeping our foundation: drum and bagpipe. This is only the beginning of the story.”
On ‘Apes Saltis’, the album’s closing track, they added: “It is festive, and the lyrics talk about the Collectio season: the harvest before winter. We prepare before the rest. The harvest is sealed. The Beekeepers fade away, but their song remains. Join the Dark Hive.”
Despite only having a debut EP to their name prior to this, Tabernis have already performed at Wacken and Summer Breeze Open Air. The 15-track album includes a rendition of 13th-century German poet Walther von der Vogelweide’s ‘Palestine Song’ and a late medieval French dance tune, alongside original compositions. Festival dates this summer include Wave-Gotik-Treffen in Leipzig and M’era Luna in Hildesheim.
Seasons of the Dark Hive is available now in a range of formats including a limited White Label Edition with signed certificate and bundles complete with bee seed packs. Obviously.
