WOLAND is a post-Black Metal band from Finland. They describe their music as "relying on a foundation without boundaries and a focused vision. The core idea is to rise above oneself and become one with divinity, to be everything you can be. While the music and lyrics are not tied to any specific events or follow any single dogma, they are heavily influenced by some of the most prominent philosophers and writers, as well as inspired by mythology, with its Gods and heroes.

"Hyperion" is the band's first, full-length album, and was recorded in their own studio. The album contains eight tracks. During the first track, "Conquer All," I am struck with a combination of sounds, elements and techniques. The blend is a doomy, gritty and sonically powerful Black Metal blueprint that twists, turns and morphs, while remaining consistent at its core at the same time. The evil, brooding vocals of W are in the driver's seat, but there is plenty going on behind the scenes.

In "Art of Ascension" there is a more familiar Metal riff and chorus pattern, and an almost industrial sound. At times I am reminded of the great Symphonic Black Metal band DIMMU BORGIR. It is very foreboding, but in an almost easy-to-listen-to type of format.  "Living Water" makes nice use of an atmospheric interlude to tie together the sheer power of the song with the more beautiful side of this genre.  These moments of beauty and melody are not lost on me.

"None" is a bit more straightforward, with plenty of punch and repugnance. There is no mistaking an electronic presence in the background, gluing together the other elements fluidly. I appreciate the flow and the variegate that they bring to each track. "Ecstasy and Rapture" for example sees "W" varying his vocals to more of a shouted, angry snarl, while the guitar parts dance up and around in their pitch.  It's a pleasing sort of dissonance. A couple passages of kicking double-bass help to drive home the point.

Adding some more texture to the album is the track "Live Forever". It has a slow, grinding rhythm, a bouncy, catchy chorus, and some time breaking interludes, with liberal use of some really skillful piano passages. Closing the album is the heavy-hitting track "Elevated Existence". It is a robust anthem of sorts, with a long, drawn out chorus, and has an overall doomy feeling.

To summarize, WOLAND has done a nice job with this album. There is a strong Metal blueprint but you can easily hear the "no boundaries" approach the band has to their craft. They vary their delivery in both tempo and instrumentation, and tell a powerful emotional tale through their chord structures.  If you are looking for something fresh and different, give this album a go.