Finnish Pagan Black band MARRASMIELI is back with their second album, "Martaiden mailta." While their first album, "Between Land and Sky," was an aggressive but ultimately more straightforward Black Metal record, "Martaiden mailta" brings in a more atmospheric approach where emphasis shifts away from guitars and gets redistributed among a very versatile set of musical instruments and singing. The collection of the instruments used by MARRASMIELI includes guitars, keyboards, jaw harps, an accordion, ukulele, and so on. It is being released via Naturmacht Productions - a well-known German Finland-based indie label specializing in underground Black Metal bands that houses bands such as the Finnish Pagan-outlet HAVURUUNU and Siberian Atmospheric duo GRIMA. Needless to say, "Martaiden mailta" looks like another fine addition to Naturmacht's catalogue of releases.

MARRASMIELI plays a very melodic, atmospheric, and sometimes even dreamy kind of Black Metal. It is not "the Post-Black-Metal-dreamy" type, but it isn't afraid to use all means available to interest the listener, from instrumental versatility to intricate harmonies and progressions. Some songs, like "The Forest to My Soul," have moments that could fit into any ALCEST record, yet the band never crosses that threshold; instead, it uses the elements it finds attractive. Another creative highlight on this record is the implementation of choir singing. The song "The Oaks of England" is an absolute highlight of the record, showcasing one of the catchiest singalongs I have heard in a while.

The sound on "Martaiden mailta" has improved since "Between Land and Sky". The mix sounds very well-balanced, and where MARRASMIELI's previous attempt sounded very guitar-centered, the versatility of used instruments and their more important position in the songs this time must have forced the band to rethink their sound crafting approach towards a more inclusive solution. The sound as a whole turned out to be quite deep and detailed, which is extremely important for an Atmospheric Black Metal record. Every time you listen to this record, you might discover new details hidden behind the walls of synth-guitar waves. The mix is charming and sounds excellent both in headphones and speakers.

"Martaiden mailta" is an excellent Black Metal record for those who value musical craftsmanship more than raw aggression. That is not to say that this record isn't aggressive when it needs to be. Instead, it offers much more than just that. Its style is sophisticated but easily understandable. It never gets boring because it constantly manages to surprise you with an unexpected development. Listening to this album for the first time is an emotional rollercoaster, and I suggest you give this one at least one spin just to experience that feeling. There's a very high chance that you will stick with this record for a while.