Blagdan Band's latest album, Palach Is Not Dead, is a powerful and thought-provoking work that showcases the band's exceptional musicianship and lyrical prowess. From the opening track, "In the Name of the Father," to the closing number, "Palach Lives On," the album takes listeners on a journey through the complex emotions and experiences of contemporary life.
The band's sound is a unique blend of rock, folk, and punk influences, with driving rhythms, intricate guitar work, and soaring vocals that give each song a distinctive character. The lyrics are equally compelling, tackling themes of social justice, political activism, and personal struggle with honesty and insight.
Standout tracks include "The Ballad of Ivan and Josip," a haunting tribute to two Croatian brothers who fought against fascism in World War II, and "The Last Song," a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of human existence. Other highlights include the energetic "Revolutionary Song," the introspective "The Ghost of Palach," and the anthemic title track, which pays tribute to Jan Palach, the Czech student who set himself on fire in protest of the Soviet occupation in 1969.