The Beginning of Times

The Beginning of Times is a profound work on which Amorphis enfolds a grand world deeply rooted in Finnish mythology with sorrowful melody, weighty guitar and soft, beautiful keyboards. Again themed on the world of the Kalevala, it strongly draws its mythic theme. Tomi Joutsen’s outstanding expression, freely using clean singing and growls, draws the songs’ light and shade extremely naturally. A record where the band’s mature ability shines. From the powerful drive of the opener “Battle for Light” and the lyricism of the moving classic “You I Need” to a cut like “Mermaid,” every song is engaging, while cuts like “My Enemy” and “Song of the Sage” convey the work’s fullness. While firmly keeping a heavy, sure drive, rich colors such as flute and female vocals add deep fantasy to the work. A polished record on which lyricism, deep folk fragrance and modern metal’s sure weight melt quietly and splendidly. It powerfully colors the fulfilling period after Tomi Joutsen joined. An engaging masterpiece expressing Finland’s deep mythic world on a grander, more fantastical scale — a record where the band’s depth shines.