First of all I'd really like to know how you pronounce the name of this band and the album's title. Come on guys! Find something simpler for a poor man like me. Anyway, the artwork of Kiuas looked quite cool at first sight. You know, the feeling when you get your hands on a CD and you REALLY want to listen to it as soon as possible? That's what actually happened with Spirit of Ukko.
Kiuas formed in 2000 and their first self financed EP The Discipline of Steel was recorded in January 2002 at Studio Tauko. During autumn 2002 the musical style of Kiuas found the right direction and the next EP was ready to be recorded. Born Under The Northern Lights EP was released in February 2003. Finally a worldwide record deal was signed with the English Rage of Achilles Records in the summer 2003. The first official release from Kiuas, a four song MCD entitled Winter in June was recorded at Studio Tauko and mastered at Finnvox. The MCD was published globally on March 29th, 2004. Sadly for the band Rage of Achilles called it a day. Kiuas signed a record contract with Spinefarm Records on September 20th, 2004. The debut album The Spirit of Ukko was recorded in the familiar Studio Tauko. The album was mixed at Sonic Pump with the guidance of Nino Laurenne.
In The Spirit Of Ukko the band shows a multi-faced personality in their musical orientation. From blast-beats to melodic Power Metal they've created a rather interesting palette of sounds that often come out mostly as a fine example of how the mixing of music influences can be perfectly blended rather than just be a musical proposal. I'm not implying that this mixture works in all occasions, there are some songs where you actually can't keep anything in mind. But there are also several tracks really interesting, bursting with splendid ideas. The vocal lines stay in game, swapping from greedy/brutal to melodic ones. If I had to find a core in all this I would had to choose Epic Metal. Of course not in the way Epic is manifested through works of legendary acts but rather in the same way Eternal Tears Of Sorrow used to work (what a band!). The production can be considered at least phenomenal (I really need your recipe, guys!).
Some of you might listen to this one and say what the hell? I can't blame you since at times Kiuas' music can become frustrating. But I strongly advise you to give the songs time to breathe in your mind and ears. The Spirit Of Ukko does not reveal its cards from the first round.