Korpiklaani
Kulkija
Nuclear Blast
Neito (Maiden) , the first track from Korpiklaani's tenth
studio album is a compelling trailer to a thriller. Guitar, drums, and atmosphere, demonstrate a determination
that they want to be known for more than folk or speed metal drinking songs and
the snarled vocals are unambiguous.
Korpikuusen kyynel also has a ferocity but as in each of
the fourteen tracks there is also a subtlety and depth whether provided by the
accordion, fiddle, or the singing of Jonne Järvelä. He even uses a softer vocal
on Aallon alla (Under the Wave) but against an even harder rock palate. Harmaja is a slow restrained ballad with
almost spoken word and tells of a bird that can't fly south due to a broken
wing which yearns to return to its homeland.
Kotikonnut (Homestead) is an anthemic track with the
accordion of Sami Perttula taking the role of lead guitar. Kallon malja (Chalice of the Skull) is a ten
minute magnus opus that will appeal to prog fans by featuring changes in pace
from slow accordion to bass driven rock, to demonic fiddle. Sillanrakentaja (Bridge Builder) begins with
a memorable riff to rival Smoke on The Water, sounds like Maiden or Saxon,
cheekily gets their own children to sound better than those in Another Brick in
the Wall, and yet still possesses its own aura.
Kuin korpi nukkuva (Like a Sleeping Forest) begins with
plucked fiddle, accordion and then morphs into a rocker before seamlessly
becoming a tango at the outro. Seven
minute Tuttu on tie (The Road is Familiar) wraps up to show that Korpiklaani
have cleverly added the theatre of nostalgia, lament and emotion to their blend
of folklore in a beguiling rock release.
NE
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