There are many things one can say about Amorphis. It's amazing how they manage to progress without ever being mainstream or repeating themselves. Their music can hardly be defined, all you can say is metal. In their new album you can hear sounds ranging from in your face riffs and growls to a saxophone, all in the same song.
I really expected to see how they would move on from the amazing Tuonela and Amorphis didn't fail me. Santeri does wonders with synth and Hammond organ, filling every detail of this album. Their new bassist plays really well with Pekka, both guitars give a great depth while keeping up with instruments alien to normal metal.
Pasi sounds really emotional, while he has reduced the growls in minimum. Ok, I admit that I loved Greed vocals from Tuonela, but you can't have it all He is more than up to the job. If you liked the vocals in the past, nothing will change your opinion now.
I don't know how metal fans will judge this album. It all depends on the point of view. If you like typical metal, you'll propably pass it by. If you like -successful- experimentations you will propably love it. I know I did. Highlights are Alone, Crimson Wave, Drifting Memories. Well it's really hard for a song to stand out in this album, there is an amazing variety of styles in there. Some say it's the most complete Amorphis ever. I'll just say it's darn good and I can't wait for the next.