Band Origin: Finland
Genre: Epic Folk Metal
Release Date: 2012
Album downloads only available to members
Album Info / Review
Unsung Heroes (2012) represents one of the most cinematic, atmospheric, and highly debated chapters in the Ensiferum discography. As the band’s fifth studio album, it took a sharp turn away from the relentless, high-speed “battle metal” of its predecessor, From Afar (2009), opting instead for a more cinematic, progressive, and folk-heavy approach.
Produced by Hiili Hiilesmaa (known for his work with HIM, Amorphis, and Apocalyptica), the production on Unsung Heroes is noticeably organic, warm, and dynamic. Instead of a relentless wall of sound, the album leaves room for acoustic instruments, theatrical spoken-word passages, and massive choral arrangements to breathe.
Musical Style & Shift:
Slower Tempos: The album relies less on the hyper-fast thrash metal “galloping” beats that Ensiferum is famous for. Instead, it focuses on mid-tempo grooves and grand, sweeping structures.
Authentic Folk Focus: The band minimized digital synthesizers, choosing instead to use authentic traditional instruments like the kantele (a traditional Finnish plucked string instrument), tin whistles, acoustic guitars, and bouzoukis.
The Progressive Masterpiece: The album culminates in a massive, multi-movement epic that shows the band’s deep appreciation for progressive rock and orchestral arrangements.
Notable Tracks:
“In My Sword I Trust”
The definitive single and standout anthem of the album. It features the classic Ensiferum formula: a highly infectious guitar hook, fist-pumping folk melodies, and a massive, masculine chant-along chorus that quickly became a live concert staple.
“Unsung Heroes”
The title track is a mid-tempo, march-like song that builds an atmosphere of a weary army returning home. It leans heavily on clean backing vocals and emotional storytelling.
“Burning Leaves”
A melancholic, deeply atmospheric track that showcases the “darker, colder side” of Finnish folklore, blending heavy riffs with a brooding melodic progression.
“Passion Proof Power”
A monumental 17-minute epic that closes the album. It is a wildly ambitious progressive metal journey featuring voice acting, sudden tempo shifts, classical piano interludes, and operatic arrangements. It stands as one of the longest and most complex songs the band has ever recorded.
Critical Reception & Legacy
The Fan Divide: Unsung Heroes polarized the Ensiferum fanbase upon release. Fans expecting the non-stop, aggressive speed of Victory Songs or From Afar were caught off guard by the album’s slower pace and acoustic focus.
A Critical Appreciation: Over time, many critics and fans have come to appreciate the album as a bold artistic experiment. It proved that Ensiferum wasn’t afraid to step out of their comfort zone to create a theatrical, folk-first experience.
The Transition: It served as an important stepping stone that allowed the band to master the grand, symphonic elements they would later perfect on albums like One Man Army (2015) and Thalassic (2020).
