Since their self-titled release back in 2001, Finnish epic Folk Metal storytellers Ensiferum have been seamlessly blazing a trail despite a myriad of lineup changes, and have done so on a frankly regular schedule. 

And since Finland is, you know, cold, Winter Storm (Metal Blade Records) is appropriately on brand, both in its name and its ten enticing tracks of grandeur and finesse. The full-length reminds listeners that Ensiferum have been on their game for some time now while also cementing that the band is not mailing it in simply to put out another record.

Clocking in at nearly forty-five minutes, the album is obscenely catchy and comes off as meticulously put together, as if the band were acting like this was in fact their debut. 

The first few frosty compositions that pique interest are “Winter Storm Vigilantes” and “Long Cold Winter Of Sorrow And Strife.” 

The former penetrates the speakers with a vibrant riff and a chug that develops in the last minute. Power Metal vocals make a stern appearance and it’s as if you can literally hear the sweat and diligent work that was no doubt put into it.

The latter is at times melodic and bruising. An epic voiceover above the rhythm further fuels the vibes here, and a punchy-as-fuck riff after a meaty introduction is remarkably attractive. The sultry hook, “We’ll sing to remember / and we’ll drink to forget” is both instantly memorable and quite the call out of this writer. I mean, the world has been chaotic for half a decade at this point. What do you want from me?

Aside from that, there’s also a hint of Powerwolf for a brief second in the introduction to “Fatherland.” Eleine’s Madeleine Liljestam provides female vocals for “Scars In My Heart” to inject not only a majestic performance, but to also give a healthy breakup of the status quo.

And Ensiferum were sure to give longtime listeners a patented folksy introduction track (“Aurora”) with tastes of Metal and swirling guitars. Additionally, “Resistentia” is another interlude track that’s rife with anticipation before calming down.

Admittedly, they may have chosen too early of a release date for a winter storm, at least for the northeastern United States. 

But the final product sounds like the parents at the neighborhood BBQ deciding they want to play wiffle ball with the kids and thus rout the children and show how the game is really played. 

Buy the album here:
https://www.metalblade.com/ensiferum/

8 / 10
MATT COOK