29 March 2024

Whispered – Metsutan – Songs of the Void

[schema type=”review” name=” Whispered – Metsutan – Songs Of The Void” description=”Label: Redhouse FMP/ Inverse Records” author=”Basak Günel” pubdate=”20-05-2016″ ]

Whispered is a Finnish ‘samurai metal’ band. Formed in 2004 by the vocalist/guitarist Jouni, the interesting and unique sound of the band was formed due to Jouni’s admiration and interest in Japan and the ancient culture. After having released 2 full-length albums, the band is back with a 3rd full-length record “Metsutan – Songs of the Void”.

Filled with catchy and epic melodies from the start, this record will make you experience the true samurai spirit! The band definitely knows how to fuse those traditional instruments – which are a part of the band’s sound- and Finnish epic metal. In this sense, you will be immediately drawn in to the beauty of the  melodies – at times Nordic and at times Japanese!-  and the aggression at the same time! All of the songs – except “Warriors of Yama”-  are quite straightforward and fast; there is no slowing down! Some songs stand out more than the others; songs like “Strike!”, “Kensei” and “Our Voice Shall Be Heard” captivated me from the first spin!

Musically, Whispered does not only deliver ‘samurai metal’ ; the more I listen to the record, the more I realize that there are a mixture of a few genres within the sound. Besides the typical Finnish melodeath sound, we get to hear influences from power and of course folk metal and I think this aspect makes the album much more interesting. I must also mention that there are not many bands who can pull off this ‘epic metal’ genre; either the production is weak in those albums or the record is just not epic enough but Whispered has definitely shown that they can do this and I am sure you will realize that they do this from the heart!

It”s been 4 years since I first saw Whispered live and they have definitely improved as a whole in these 4 years! “Metsutan- Songs Of The Void” is well-produced and will entertain the lovers of epic, power and folk metal and of course the lovers of the Japanese culture! Even if you are not into the samurai culture though, I am sure you will enjoy the record as a whole.

Line-up:
Jouni Valjakka – vocals, guitar
Mikko Mattila – guitar
Kai Palo – bass
Jussi Kallava – drums

 

 Whispered Tracklist:
01. Chi No Odori
02. Strike!
03. Exile Of The Floating World
04. Sakura Omen
05. Kensei
06. Our Voice Shall Be Heard
07. Tsukiakari
08. Warriors of Yama
09. Victory Grounds Nothing
10. Bloodred Shores of Enoshima

Links:
Whispered Official
Whispered Facebook