Metsatöll – Karjajuht

Releasedate: 07-03-2014; Label: Spinefarm Records
By: Basak Günel

Metsatöll is an Estonian folk metal band which was formed in 1999. Combining heavy metal with the inspiring and traditional folk instruments, Metsatöll gained the respect of the fans and the media in a short time; the band took their first award in Estonia just 6 years after they were formed. This accomplishment surely led way to bigger audiences and a more improved sound of Metsatöll. Hence, throughout their career, the band has managed to move forward without repeating themselves and that’s why they are counted as one of the ‘unique’ folk metal bands in the scene.

Compared to the previous albums, „Karjajuht”, which means ‘pack leader’, shows the more ‘fierce’ and the energetic side of the band. Just like the meaning of the name “Karjajuht”, the listener will feel the true fighting spirit in the songs. Soundwise, the band also had a different approach with this album; instead of the domination of the authentic folk elements, that ‘fierce’ vibe led by the guitar riffs is more in the foreground. Nevertheless, the folk elements are still there which, in combination with the heavy guitars, will be an earcandy to the classic folk metal listeners. I personally loved the first half of the album more since the perfect harmony of folk and heavy metal could be heard clearly compared to the second half.

Another element I like about the album, and about Metsatöll in general, is how the Estonian language fits perfectly to the band’s style and sound. The vocals, sung by Markus in Estonian, show us another diverse and colorful side of the folk metal music whereas the folk instruments played by Lauri reflects the authentic and traditional side of the band. Normally, when folk metal is considered, Estonia is not the first country that comes to mind but it should definitely be mentioned that Metsatöll managed to create a different sound with “Karjajuht”. It reflects the diversity and the power of the band; although I wouldn’t mind more folk sounds in the album, I think that any folk and heavy metal music fan will surely enjoy this album. It is fun, fierce and awesome to headbang to!

Line up:
Markus – vocals, guitar
Lauri – vocals, torupill, flutes, kannel, instrument of angst, mouth harp, goat horn, acoustic guitar
Kuriraivo – bass, vocals
Atso – drums and percussion, vocals

Links:
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