To Holmgard, and Beyond!

Should the phrase “battle metal,” for some unknown reason, cross your mind, let the name “Turisas” follow soon after. Finland based Turisas -- named after their homeland's ancient god of war – has risen above the novelties of folk metal and taken the best elements of the style to their own. Not in the least interested in dragons and wizards and such, Turisas digs deep into the history books for inspiration in their varying songs, specifically into those of vikings. Folky, but not aggravatingly so, Turisas builds an epic atmosphere of the might and power of the vikings and their historical battles and lifestyle, as illustrated by their 2007 release The Varangian Way (to the uninformed, Varangians were 9th and 10th century vikings who pressed south and east through what is now Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.) Suprisingly enough, however, their debut album entitled Battle Metal contained songs without mention to either battle or vikings.

Not satisfied with the screaming and roaring of so many metal bands before them, Turisas prefers a more orchestral approach, but is never without a brutal guitar riff (or the support of an accordion and violin, for that matter.) Vocalist Mathias Nygård has some great capabilities from roaring to a beautiful melodic narrative, the vocal aspect (as well as much of the composition for the band) is covered by a formidable talent. Guitars, bass and drums meld together to create a driving musical force, accented by polka and folk melodies and sounds. Don't let their comical appearance fool you! Turisas, unlike many other “folk metal” bands, has the ability to play folk metal without coming off as too much of a novelty act; an admirable feat in itself! Even with violins and the occasional accordion singing their way through a melody reminiscent of some old polka tune, the skillful rhythm work of the guitar and percussion keeps the piece from becoming too stagnant.

A major strength of this band not to be forgotten is the exquisite combination of instruments, vocals and the balance of each within the piece. Though the orchestral aspect of their compositions can become a bit much for some listeners, the pressure and build of the rhythm guitar and bass keeps the listener on track with the song and keeps them from being distracted by the almost theatrical history-telling vocal breaks. The staggering variety of their songs in itself seems enough to sell countless albums, as Turisas leaves little room for one to say all their songs just sound like typical metal. Breaks in tempo, key changes, and even changes in the meter and overall tone of the piece keep listeners engaged and interested.

Turisas, with the efforts of Nygård leading the way, has established themselves in the metal world as much more than a novelty act, and has shown that they are a force to be reckoned with by the standard laughable imitators with nothing to show but long beards and overdone drinking songs.