From Bandcamp, “Since birth, ORANSSI PAZUZU has never been satisfied to stick with a formula. Each album has seen the band expand upon its previous incarnation and then, like a supernova, blow it up and transform again into something recognizable but completely new.” The album has eight songs, and “Bioalkemisti” is first. A weighted, fuzzy, and dark electronic beat opens the song, leading to harsh vocals that sound like a whisper, disappearing into the winds as soon as they are spoken. A dissonant guitar riff follows, and it’s clear that this album will be a unique journey. “Muuntautuja” is next, and it begins with the steady beat of drums, followed by some augmenting electronic elements. The tension in the air is very thick, and you can see the freight train in the distance. It opens up when fat keyboard notes and vocal screams.

“Voitelu” has a little more structure, but that is a loose definition. More heavy and fuzzy electronic notes fill the background with stiff winds from every direction. The raspy vocals are sung in a more traditional Black Metal style, but the places that the band takes the songs are beyond the boundaries of the genre. “Hautatuuli” has smoother drum and bass tones, but in the background, a harrowing creature still lurks. As strange as it sounds, he seems to be dancing. He then steps into the light just enough that you can see his horrid form, and it’s almost too much to bear. “Valotus” enters slowly, and cautiously, like a serial killer scoping out the scene to make sure he has a quick getaway. The sound explodes forth, with punishing electronic notes that are as dark as the night sky.

“Ikikäärme” is much longer. It pulses in the beginning, like a faint heartbeat, and the drummer takes a Jazzy approach. The tension is so thick, it takes physical form in front of your eyes. Vocals ease in, and layers begin to be added. A storm brews on the horizon, and before you know it, it is thrust upon you. High winds and heavy rains whip your body back and forth. It leaves as quickly as it came, and you are left with a lot of damage in its wake. “Vierivä usva” closes the album, and the thick wave of darkness that came from the abyss slowly recedes, heading back to where it originated. You are left with the feeling that maybe all of this was a dream?

You first question should be, what do you call this music? Take a look at the album cover for your first clue. There are dark and twisted shades of black, grey, and white, and if you look at them from just the right angle, you can make out some distinct forms, or can you? It’s amorphous, just like the music. Part Black Metal, part Industrial and Psychedelic, part Experimental, and even part Progressive, but wholly original and unique, it expands the boundaries of music into bold and brave territory. It’s an obvious candidate for album of the year.