Ukrainian producer Heinali, real name Oleh Shpudeiko, is set to release a new album in February, called Kyiv Eternal.
Out on the one-year anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the 11-track album is described as a tribute to the country and city he loves. You can listen to the title track just below.
"After the Battle of Kyiv was over, many Kyivites noticed this strange feeling," said Shpudeiko in a statement about the album. "It was as if the city was alive, breathing. We wanted to hug it, to protect every inch of it from harm. I didn’t know how to do it back then. It took time and distance to figure it out, but Kyiv Eternal is my hug."
The album’s artwork features a photo of a monument to Petro Konashevych-Sahaidachny, who was a 16th century Ukrainian political and military leader, wrapped up to protect it from Russian bombs. "Kyiv Eternal is a farewell to this place in time and space to which none of us will ever be able to return," Shpudeiko added about the new record. "It is a place that will only exist in our memories."
Injazero will release Kyiv Eternal on February 24, 2023.