As I've mentionned last week, I said I would be reviewing Kiuas' The Spirit of Ukko and willing to share it on these boards.
So here it is, hoping at least a small number will appreciate it.
Quote:
Hailing from Finland and relatively new on the metal scence, the quintet composed of singer Ilja Jalkanen, guitarist Mikko Salovaara, keyboardist Atte Tanskanen, bassist Teemu Tuominen and drummer Markku Näreneva is influenced by a myriad of metal styles, most notably power, thrash, folk and extreme metal.
On their debut album, "The Spirit of Ukko", Kiuas delivers an invigorating and powerful performance. Power metal being the band's predominant style, doesn't prevent Kiuas from pushing their limits by adding extremely aggresive guitar tones, enticing keyboards and unique vocals that has range and versatility.
Kiuas skillfully injects in their music progressive & extreme metal stylings boardering death and black metal. "Warrior Soul" is a perfect exemple of this remarkable accomplishment. Frontman Ilja Jalkanen's vocals range from being rough and never to high giving Kiuas' music an interesting edge. While Jalkanen's vocals may be enthralling, guitarist Mikko Salovaara is simply a beast. Taking the occasional death metal vocal duties and excelling at both lead and rythm guitar. As in many other power metal bands, keyboards are very present and are at times reminescent of compatriots Sonata Arctica. Kiuas also, sprinkles their music with folk elements on tracks like "Across the Snow" and the gorgeous album closer "And The North Star Cried".
All these elements mixed in for good mesure, makes Kiuas' debut refreshing and extremely satisfying. Kiuas is definately a band to watch out for especially given their skills, immense talent and potential.
Highlights : Warrior Soul, Across the Snow, And The North Star Cried, The Spirit of Ukko
Rating : 89/100
