Credo

Introduction to Melnais Kliedziens

In 1986, the Latvian rock group Credo released an album titled Melnais Kliedziens (translated as "The Black Scream"). This vinyl LP was produced by the Soviet state label Melodiya, under catalog number С60 24209 005. The album was recorded in 1985 at the Riga Recording Studio, featuring sound engineering by Ivars Vīgners.

Concept and Themes

Melnais Kliedziens is characterized as a dramatic conceptual rock suite. The work is an anti-war cantata dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The music was composed by Raimonds Pauls, a celebrated figure in Latvian music. Lyrics and artwork for the album were crafted by Gunārs Krollis, a prominent Latvian artist and poet.

Musical Composition

The album features a blend of various musical styles, including progressive rock, art-rock, and pop rock elements. The instrumentation is rich, showcasing electric and acoustic guitar work by Armands Alksnis, alongside keyboards and synthesizers played by Aldis Langbaums. The dual vocals of Guntis Veits and Raivis Krūms add emotional depth to the performances. The 12-minute opener, "Uguns Bulta, Sāpe" ("Fire Arrow, Pain"), sets a dramatic tone, while the title track "Melnais Kliedziens" explores the central theme of the album.

Track Highlights

Side A of the album includes the title track and "Ēna" ("Shadow"), contributing to the overarching narrative. Side B features "Lūgums Ugunij" ("Plea to Fire") and the lengthy "Nakts, Pieskāriens" ("Night, Touch"), which further develops the album's themes. The work concludes with "Epilogs" ("Epilogue"), bringing the suite to a reflective close.

Technical Details

The production quality of Melnais Kliedziens reflects the capabilities of the Riga Recording Studio in the mid-1980s. The album continues to be recognized for its ambitious artistic vision and cohesive musical arrangement. It remains an important piece in the history of Latvian rock music.

Release Information

Melnais Kliedziens was released in 1986 and is associated with the genre tags of folk, world & country, rock, pop rock, and progressive rock.