Wintersun - Time II (2024)

Unleashing one of the most cinematic Metal releases of 2024, today we have Finland’s Wintersun and their opus “Time II”. Filled with the band’s signature Melodic Metal approach mixed with lush symphonic elements, this release delivers six dramatic tracks that cover nearly 50-minutes of superbly engaging and elegant music. The band continues to improve and enrich their sound and this release elevates it to a whole new level.

Opening with the instrumental “Fields of Snow”, we get a continuation of the Asian elements that the first “Time” release had, creating a very lively and engaging atmosphere. The epicness starts with the ravaging “The Way of The Fire”, featuring some insane lead guitars by none other than Teemu Mäntysaari, alongside dramatic symphonic arrangements and very well crafted tempo changes. This song gives vibes of a mixture of Children of Bodom meets Warmen meets Ensiferum, so you know it is beyond awesome.

The album flows masterfully with the melancholic “One With The Shadows” and the instrumental “Ominous Clouds”, leading into the 12-minute bombastic “Storm”. Here, we have Jari Mäenpää and his harsh vocals nicely flanking dramatic choral arrangements, clean vocals, and crafty drumming, courtesy of Kai Hahto (Nightwish). Wrapping things up, “Silver Leaves” has again that dreamy Asian vibe alongside a slower tempo and playful clean vocals.

As a whole, “Time II” is an excellent release that is highly polished and delivers a great diversity of elements and ideas. Wintersun continues to push their limits and with this release they set a higher bar for themselves in the future. We love how well all tracks blend in together and deliver a very cinematic and magical experience to the listener. If you like Symphonic/Melodic Metal music, this is a must have release in 2024.

Label: Nuclear Blast Records

Release: August 30th, 2024

Genre: Symphonic/Melodic Metal

Country: Finland