The renowned Macedonian darkwave band Mizar released a new single titled “Vardar e Stiks” on January 2, 2023. The song features lyrics penned by the band’s lead vocalist, Niko Đorgievski, who collaborated with founder and composer Gorazd Čapovski on the music, arrangement, and production of the track. Accompanying the single is a music video directed by Aleksandar Ristovski Princ.
Mizar has a rich history, having been established in 1983, and is celebrated for its unique sound that blends elements of ancient Slavic chants, Macedonian folklore, and Byzantine tradition, all enveloped in a dark and gothic aesthetic. The band has evolved through various phases over the decades, with changing lineups but a steadfast commitment to its distinctive musical style.
On September 20, 2022, Mizar performed a concert in Ulica Slobode, part of the Podgorica Cultural Summer events. The performance attracted several hundred attendees, primarily from younger and middle-aged generations. The band opened the concert with an adaptation of Psalm 135, followed by a sequence of popular tracks such as “Devojka od bronza,” “Magla,” “Gradot e nem,” and their latest release, “Grozomora.”
One of the standout features of the concert was Niko Đorgievski’s powerful voice, which resonated throughout the venue. His vocal delivery combines the strength of an operatic tenor with the depth of Byzantine chant and the energy typical of dark metal performances.
Mizar has released seven albums to date, solidifying its position as a pioneering force in the Balkan music scene. Despite various changes in the band’s lineup, Gorazd Čapovski has remained a constant driving force behind its creative direction. The band’s ability to maintain a unique musical identity while exploring different styles has earned it a dedicated following both in Macedonia and beyond.
With the release of “Vardar e Stiks,” Mizar continues to push the boundaries of its genre, showcasing the band’s evolution while honoring its roots. The new single and its accompanying visuals are expected to resonate with both long-time fans and new listeners alike, reaffirming Mizar’s status as a key player in the regional music landscape.
