Korpiklaani - Kulkija (2018)

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Unleashing one hell of a catchy and organic Folk Metal release, today we have legendary Korpiklanni delivering “Kulkija”. As their longest release to date, over 70 minutes of music, this release feels more intimate while having the band’s signature playful and engaging songs. This album instantly moves into the top Folk Metal releases of 2018, so be sure to not miss out.

Slowly building up momentum with “Neito”, the band wastes no time to unleash their characteristic lush sound with rich traditional instrumentation and heavy guitars to build a very catchy contrast. Tuomas Rounakari’s violin and Sami Perttula’s accordion brilliantly give the music that subtle playfulness that we love from the band while delivering dramatic and catchy songs like “Korpikuusen kyynel” and “Allon alla”. The band’s sound in this release feels a bit more barebones and manages to deliver more emotions and craft darker songs like “Harmaja” and one of our favorites: “Korikonnut”.

As the album progresses we are quite delighted with lush tracks like “Kallon malja” and the heavy “Sillanrakentaja”, which starts like an old-school Death Metal tune until Jonne delivers his signature vocals. Those looking for the traditional drinking-inducing Folk songs from the bands, will be well served by the catchiness of “Henkselipoika” and the festive nature of “Riemu”. The band’s Metal influences are always present and even if sometimes the Folk instruments take centerstage, you can always count with a pulsating bass guitar line by Jarkko Aaltonen and a good dosage of heavy guitar riffs like on the superbly addictive “Juomamaa”.

Overall, “Kulkija” is a very rich release from Korpiklaani, which maintains their signature style and yet manages to deliver something more personal and direct. All fans of the band will be delighted to hear their classical playfulness throughout all songs and will certainly love this release. As a step forward in the band’s musical journey, this release shows a more emotional and raw side of the band that is nicely explored in very dynamic and distinctive compositions. In a few words, this is definitely one of the best Folk Metal albums to be released in 2018.

Bands: Korpiklaani Album: Kulkija

Label: Nuclear Blast Records

Release: September 7th, 2018

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Genre: Folk Metal

Country: Finland

Rating: 91/100
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