RELEASE DATE: May 1st, 2026

Limited edition of 50 copies (hand-numbered sticker). Comes as white shell tape with pro print, 3 panel j-card, clear jewel case.

As the name already betrays, Aufbruch Europa play neofolk. Theirs is, especially as far as atmosphere goes, a very traditional brand of neofolk. Melancholy moods dominate on this, their debut album, with songs of tradition, pain of loss and a defiant gaze to the future. The base foundation of the Austrian act is in the tradition of German neofolk such as Darkwood, Forseti, Jännerwein, Orplid etc. Aufbruch Europa expand upon this by placing electric guitar in a very prominent role on this album. It’s sharp, post-punk tone instantly gives Aufbruch Europa a bit of unique character.

Shining Hearts On Fields Of Sorrow finds a functioning balance between familiarity and originality. On the one hand, the album is instantly familiar and accessible to fans of neofolk. On the other, the electric guitars and occasional synths give the album a genuinely distinct character. In many ways, Aufbruch Europa manage to hit all the right buttons: traditional, but not slavishly so; familiar, but not without ideas of its own. And, above all, with some very solid songwriting and heartfelt, emotional performances.