Batushka, led by vocalist Bartłomiej Krysiuk, appears to be preparing for a significant change. According to their Instagram, they will stream their September 20 show in Poland, which they hint might be “one of the last opportunities to see Batushka live.”
“PILGRIMS!” the band announced. “We invite you for the first time to a special online event. Ultimate live liturgy from a concert in Krakow during the BLACK PASCHA II tour. 20.09.2024 – KRAKÓW – HYPE PARK @hype___park. Purchase access now before it’s too late – link in bio.
“The number of accesses is limited! This will be one of the last opportunities to see Batushka live – and this is not a joke!”
When a fan inquired about the “last opportunities” comment, the band cryptically responded, “will be smth NEW!” This statement comes amidst Krysiuk’s ongoing lawsuit with Batushka founder Krzysztof “Derph” Drabikowski over the rights to the band’s name.
The conflict began in 2018 when Drabikowski and Krysiuk parted ways. Drabikowski continued as Batushka without Krysiuk, while Krysiuk moved on as Batushka and released the 2019 album “Hospodi” under Metal Blade Records, later signing with Napalm Records for a second release and extensive touring.
Meanwhile, Drabikowski, performing as Батюшка, released the album “Панихида” in 2019, while a legal battle over the Batushka name ensued. Recently, a court ruled that Drabikowski owns the name, and Krysiuk cannot continue as Batushka without his permission. Krysiuk plans to appeal this decision and intends to continue under the Batushka name until the appeal is resolved.
Krysiuk addressed the ruling, stating: “In connection with the judgment of the District Court in Warsaw, XXII Intellectual Property Division, we would like to inform you that the judgment is not final and may be appealed against. We are disappointed with the verdict and the length of the trial, which lasted over four years.
“Adding to our sense of disappointment is the fact that the amount of evidence we presented was insufficient. The above court decision is not binding and does not change our concert and publishing plans in the near future.
“We would also like to remind you that final court judgments are enforceable, i.e., those against which no complaint was filed within the deadline specified in the proceedings, and if a final judgment is passed in the next court instance, we will certainly respect it and comply with it.
“Of course, we expect another wave of hate, so please, if you are our fan, do not engage in pointless discussions and do not waste your time. Listen to our music and support us.”
