Release date: 21st January 2022
Verikalpa is one of those bands that can’t seem to put a foot wrong. Their previous two albums, Taistelutahto and Tuoppitanssi, were both very impressive pieces of work so I had high hopes for album number three. Tunturihauta does not disappoint, and brings the fun, energetic folk metal they have become known for.
Tunturihauta essentially picks up where Tuoppitanssi left off, getting right to the point with a punchy opener that is exactly what you come to expect from Verikalpa – a massive sounding song that is both fast-paced and memorable. Seventh track Taisto is my personal favourite; it’s super catchy and the main theme will swiftly get stuck in your head – it’s got one of those melodies destined to stay with you long after you’ve finished listening to the album.
Now, this perhaps should be the point in my review where I perhaps complain that Tunturihauta doesn’t exactly tread any new ground. This is true, as there are no surprises here when you compare it to Verikalpa’s previous two albums, but honestly? I don’t care. Verikalpa have found their niche and they do it really well. Tunturihauta kicks some serious ass and when the music is this good, it really can’t be faulted.
As a whole, Verikalpa have released another great album. If you loved their first two releases, then there’s no way you won’t enjoy Tunturihauta. This is another fun album, and I already can’t wait to fly back to Finland and catch some of these tracks live!
