Turisas2013

After a period shrouded in uncertainty, Turisas roared back onto the scene in 2013 with *Turisas2013*, an album that feels less like a comeback and more like a declaration – a defiant middle finger to anyone who doubted their ability to conjure primal fury and epic storytelling. This isn't just folk metal; it's a full-blown sonic assault, a glorious collision of melodic death metal brutality and the raw energy of traditional Finnish folk instrumentation. The result is something truly unique, a sound that's instantly recognizable as Turisas, but also refined and more focused than anything they've done before.

The album immediately grabs you by the throat with 'For Your Own Good,' a track that establishes the tone for what's to follow: relentless drumming, soaring melodies, and Mathias Nygård's unmistakable vocals, weaving tales of hardship and resilience. It's not subtle; it's an all-out charge into battle, complete with bombastic orchestration and a sense of impending doom. The production is crisp and powerful, allowing every element – from the blast beats to the intricate folk arrangements – to cut through with clarity.

The sheer scale of this album is breathtaking; it’s like charging into battle with a horde of Viking war horns.

'Ten More Miles' continues this momentum, showcasing the band's ability to craft genuinely memorable hooks within their complex musical framework. It's a deceptively simple song at its core, built around a driving rhythm and a singalong chorus that will have you chanting along even if you don't understand the lyrics (and let's be honest, deciphering Nygård's lyrical narratives is often an adventure in itself). The interplay between the guitars and violins here is particularly striking, creating a dynamic tension that keeps things constantly engaging.

The album isn't without its moments of introspection. 'Piece by Piece' offers a brief respite from the relentless onslaught, showcasing a more melancholic side to Turisas. While it doesn't quite reach the heights of the more bombastic tracks, it provides a welcome contrast and demonstrates the band's versatility. It's a moment to catch your breath before plunging back into the fray.

Then comes 'Into The Free,' which is arguably the album's centerpiece – an epic, sprawling track that encapsulates everything that makes Turisas so compelling. The sheer scale of this song is breathtaking; it's like charging into battle with a horde of Viking war horns. It builds slowly, layering instrumentation and vocal harmonies until it explodes into a glorious crescendo of sound. This isn't just music; it's an experience.

The second half of the album maintains the intensity, though perhaps with slightly less variation than the first. 'Run Bhang-Eater, Run!' is a frenetic blast of energy, while 'Greek Fire' delivers another dose of blistering riffs and thunderous drumming. There are moments where the relentless pace can feel a little tiring, but the sheer quality of the musicianship keeps you invested.

'The Days Passed' provides another moment of relative calm, allowing the folk elements to shine through more prominently. It's a beautifully crafted track that showcases the band's ability to create atmosphere and evoke emotion. However, it does feel somewhat out of place within the overall flow of the album – a brief detour into quieter territory that doesn't quite fit with the prevailing sense of urgency.

'No Good Story Ever Starts With Drinking Tea' is a playful track, injecting some much-needed levity into the proceedings. It's a welcome change of pace and demonstrates Turisas's ability to poke fun at themselves while still maintaining their signature intensity. The lyrics are witty and self-deprecating, adding another layer of charm to an already impressive album.

The closing track, 'We Ride Together,' brings *Turisas2013* to a suitably epic conclusion. It's a triumphant anthem that encapsulates the band's unwavering spirit and their commitment to delivering uncompromising metal music. The song swells with emotion, leaving you feeling exhilarated and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.

*Turisas2013* isn't perfect; there are moments where the relentless intensity can feel slightly overwhelming, and a few tracks don't quite reach the heights of others. However, these minor flaws are easily forgiven in light of the album's overall brilliance. It's a glorious return for Turisas, a testament to their enduring creativity and their ability to forge a truly unique musical identity. This is folk metal at its most brutal, its most melodic, and its most undeniably epic – an essential listen for anyone who appreciates uncompromising music with a touch of Viking flair.