Band Origin: Helsinki, Finland
Genre: Progressive Metal / Death / Doom
Release Date: 2018
Album downloads only available to members
Album Info / Review
A Grand Masterpiece of Myth and Melody
INTRO
After the massive success of Under the Red Cloud (2015), the metal world wondered: how could Amorphis possibly go bigger? The answer arrived in 2018 with Queen of Time. Produced by the renowned Jens Bogren, this album sees the band expanding their sonic palette to legendary proportions. By incorporating a real orchestra, a professional choir, and even a saxophone, Amorphis didn’t just release an album—they created a cinematic experience that redefines Progressive Melodic Metal.
TRACK ANALYSIS
Queen of Time is a journey that feels both ancient and futuristic. It balances the band’s signature heavy riffs with an unprecedented level of symphonic grandeur.
The experience kicks off with “The Bee,” featuring a haunting synth intro that explodes into a crushing riff and Tomi Joutsen’s impeccable growls. It’s an instant classic that sets the high-bar for the rest of the record. One of the biggest surprises is “Daughter of Hate,” which utilizes a 70s-style Hammond organ and a wild saxophone solo, proving that Amorphis is never afraid to break the “rules” of metal.
A major emotional high point is “Amongst Stars,” a breathtaking duet with the legendary Anneke van Giersbergen. The chemistry between her ethereal vocals and Joutsen’s power creates a track that is as catchy as it is moving. Meanwhile, “The Golden Elk” showcases the band’s folk roots, using orchestral layers to make the listener feel like they are wandering through the pages of the Kalevala epic itself.
The production is flawless; despite the many layers of instruments and vocals, the mix remains clear and punchy, allowing every intricate detail to be heard.
HIGHLIGHT TRACKS
“The Bee”: A masterclass in atmosphere and power.
“Amongst Stars”: A stunning, melodic anthem featuring a career-best guest performance.
“Daughter of Hate”: Bold, progressive, and delightfully experimental.
CONCLUSION
Queen of Time is arguably the “Magnum Opus” of the modern Amorphis era. It is a dense, rewarding, and deeply beautiful record that proves heavy metal can be sophisticated and artful without losing its bite. If you want to hear a band at the absolute peak of their creative powers, this is the album to play. It is a monumental achievement that stands as a pillar of 21st-century metal.
FINAL RATING
9.8 / 10
“A sprawling, symphonic triumph that captures the very essence of Finnish melancholy and transforms it into gold.”
