AMORPHIS: Borderland (MELODIC METAL): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

Although Amorphis has not surprised us with any major evolution since Tom Joutsen took over as vocalist some twenty years ago, it must be acknowledged that their albums follow one another, are all somewhat similar, but never disappoint.

With a formula they are unlikely to abandon, the Finns possess the confidence of veterans who have nothing left to prove, visiting us every three or four years with a new offering that is as unsurprising as it is comfortable, in the sense that it is familiar and immediately welcoming. This may seem paradoxical for music that, without being icy, is based on melodies shrouded in a gentle coldness!

Unsurprisingly, “Borderland” is no exception to the rule, an opus of finely chiseled purity, technically flawless (it is produced by Jacob Hansen) and rich with ten compositions, each more seductive than the last. Its title evokes the geographical situation of a country where the notion of borders takes on even greater existential importance than elsewhere, its cover reminiscent of another (that of “Silent Waters”), and its opener, 'The Circle', which resonates like a nod to the album of (almost) the same name, dictate a work that feels like a synthesis, embracing all facets of the band, both sonic and thematic.

Tomi Joutsen alternates between vocals as clear as a blue lake and the growls of underground miners in a well-oiled machine, the guitarists weaving together those distinctive, sophisticated and frozen motifs, while the delicate keyboards spread out landscapes laden with poetry. The unstoppable opener 'The Circle', 'Dancing Shadow', and 'The Strange' remain pure Amorphis. And the best, it's true. But as for taking risks, we'll pass. That being said, the Finns still know how to, if not surprise us, at least timidly attempt to venture into different territory.

Examples include 'Light And Shadow' with its pop tones that Nightwish would be proud of, the slow 'The Lantern' draped in very progressive synths, and above all 'Dispair', a conclusion of beautiful dramatic emphasis bordering on Doom, whose haunting riffs summon the specter of the late Rapture without ever abandoning its crystalline elegance. Others stand out with their more rugged writing, such as 'Tempest' or the epic and unifying title track.

“Borderland” confirms once again that Amorphis cannot produce a bad album, a collection of instant anthems that are unsurprising but never disappointing. - Official website

AMORPHIS

BORDERLAND

REIGNING PHOENIX MUSIC

MELODIC METAL