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KORPIKLAANI
Kulkija
2018, Nuclear Blast

KORPIKLAANI are one of the most purely fun bands in metal, period. Go see them live.

While some bands infuse folk into their metal, KORPIKLAANI have always gone the opposite direction and the results are consistently stunning, showcasing the versatility not only of metal but surely of folk as well. The utilization of not only traditional Finnish instruments but also the peculiar (and awesome) singing style known as Yoik, KORPIKLAANI occupy a space that is theirs alone. There is not another band as instantly recognizable in style, attitude, dress, or any other usual metric. The sound they make is joyous.

Even when slowing things down, as happens a few times throughout Kulkija, (KORPIKLAANI ventures into what I can only call ballad territory even) the undercurrent of an incredibly fun record can still be felt.

KORPIKLAANI is prolific and although quite deep into their career now there are no shortage of ideas flowing to keep the listener engaged. Kulkija is album 13 in total for the band, including those under previous name SHAMAN, and also represents the longest break between albums thus far seen by the band. The result is refreshing like a slap in the face with a salmon. And, possibly more important, Kulkija finds KORPIKLAANI expanding their sonic palette with experimentations in mood and flow. The experiments pay off in spades, Kulkija being an exciting and immersive experience for the listener with many layers to discover. A headphone record. People still use those right, they don’t just use their phone speakers?

All considered, KORPIKLAANI have a winner here. A few tweaks to the formula, sure, but new flavors are good and welcomed to spice things up. Above all, Kulkija retains the general vibe of KORPIKLAANI, which is one of being wholly unique. And fun, did I mention ludicrously fun?

4.0 Out Of 5.0