How to turn melancholy into perfection – review of “Kun Valo Minussa Kuoli” by Kaunis Kuolematon

The more I listen to and discover Finnish bands, the more I find new artists that I like. Yes, that’s a problem because I can’t possibly like them all, can I? It turns out I can, and I will, especially if the bands release high quality albums, just like Kaunis Kuolematon are about to do on November 28th.

“Kun Valo Minussa Kuoli”, in English “When the light in me died”, is yet another masterpiece that comes from the Hamina-based band. While it isn’t certainly a record that can appeal to a novice heavy metal listener, for the lovers of melodic extreme metal this is perfect. The refined production, mixing and mastering is only one of the aspects that are incredible about this album.

Melodies are intricate, riffs and structures are well-thought-of, and the atmospheres are utterly phenomenal. Olli Suvanto and Mikko Heikkilä, alternating between harsh and clean vocals make the A-team if there ever was one, Ville Mussalo and Jarno Uski complete the rhythmic section with layers of technique and passion. Miika Hostikka on drums finds the right equilibrium between doom and death, which rounds out the lineup of the band.

Despite being a complex work, the album also sounds so direct, in-your-face and without useless filters. It’s metal, in its purest form, delivered flawlessly with a purpose. I have a very hard time in choosing a track that is my favorite, because they all present something unique and necessary. But perhaps I’ll choose the closing track “Aatos“, because you know me, I have a thing for acoustic sections!

So, for anyone that’s interested in a spectacular album to add to their playlists, look no further. Kaunis Kuolematon are back with their greatest work, and I’m confident that I won’t be the only one that will be enjoying “Kun Valo Minussa Kuoli” for a long time.

Tracklist:

1. Kaiku
2. Merta
3. Kun Kyynelistä Muodostuu Meri 
4. Rauniot 
5. Maailman Ainut Ihminen 
6. Kaipaus
7. Kun Valo Minussa Kuoli
8. Kuura
9. Aatos