Something of a Finnish supergroup collaboration, featuring current and/or ex-members of Swallow The Sun, Amorphis (original bass player and keyboardist), Moonsorrow and guitarist Sami Ylisirniö, who plays with both Waltari and Kreator! Given the participants, one can be assured the music is tuneful, heavy and leaning towards the gloomy end of things. While the Sun’s vocalist Mikko Kotamäki employs both growls and clean styles, often within seconds of one another, there’s a strong overall sense of melody. If I had to pick one of the principles to compare Barren Earth with, it would be Amorphis (circa "Elegy"), for the adventurous paths taken (acoustic guitars, piano, dichotomous vocals, the occasional almost trippy rhythms thanks to wah wah pedal and Hammond organ, etc.). Perhaps a bit of resentment on the parts of Olli-Pekka Laine and Kasper Mårtenson, for leaving Amorphis in the first place. Why else build a replica?

‘Flicker’ is basically an acoustic ballad/folk song, apart from the recurrent electrified/growled chorus. Much of a 6:33 ‘The Ritual Of Dawn’ is instrumental, while ‘Ere All Perish’ is the rare full blown rock track, nearly devoid of any subtleties. Highly recommended for fans of Amorphis!