Amorphis

Progressive Metal has been classified by the public as being “mainstream.” Well I disagree with that. Now although the music style is softer on the ears than Death Metal or Grindcore, it still isn’t mainstream. Amorphis is one of those Progressive Metal bands that has changed and adapted to the times and ages. The band started out as a Death Metal/Doom Metal band back in 1990, and has evolved into what they are today. The band, hailing from Finland, consists of Tomi Joutsen (vocals), Esa Holopainen (guitar), Tomi Koivusaari (guitar), Niclas Etelävuori (bass), Santeri Kallio (keyboards), and Jan Rechberger (drums).

The album opens up with the track “Two Moons,” which has an interesting sounding introduction. The instrumental to the track, although fast-paced, was still rather soothing and pleasant to listen to; a song I would listen to if I needed to calm down. The solo was played incredibly, as was the rhythm and other lead parts throughout the track.

Fourth on the album is “Born From Fire.” This track is where you can really tell the band is Finnish. Only bands from Europe can develop a sound so unique, and sound so pleasing to the ear. The drums, although they did sound simplistic, were still played well and held up through the whole song. As I mentioned in the previous paragraph, the solos that this band puts out are fantastic, including the one in played on this song.

Lastly on the album is “Empty Opening.” The introduction to this track was a little bit too simple, but sometimes the simplest songs sound the best. Take Static-X for example, simple yet fucking awesome. Tomi’s vocals were outstanding right the way through and you can really hear the bass more in this track… which is a really good thing. Not a lot of bands give the bass player enough time to shine.

Overall, the album was pretty good and I was impressed with the complex guitar work in some of the songs. Amorphis are undoubtedly a band worth paying money to see. I’d have to give this album a 7.4/10.  [ END ]

Track Listing:

01. Two Moons
02. House of Sleep
03. Leaves Scar
04. Born From Fire
05. Under a Soil and Black Stone
06. Perkele (The God of Fire)
07. The Smoke
08. Same Flesh
09. Brother Moon
10. Empty Opening

Run Time: 44:04