Whispered returns after years of silence – new single “Ikikaere” released today

The legendary Finnish melodic death metal act Whispered makes a long-awaited return with their epic new single ‘Ikikaere‘! Fast, fierce, and rich with sweeping orchestrations and the Japanese folk influences the band is known for, the track marks a powerful comeback setting the tone for their upcoming fourth album.

Earlier this year, Whispered also joined forces with Spinefarm Records founder Riku Pääkkönen’s new label Ranka Kustannus (Blind Channel, Cyan Kicks, Kalmah) for the release of their fourth album, set to arrive this fall. “Ikikaere“, released today, is the band’s first new material since their 2016 album “Metsutan”. It’s also been ten years since Whispered and Ranka last crossed paths.

”Ranka was interested in Whispered back in 2016 when the band released their previous album. At that time, things didn’t move anywhere, but when the band contacted us about a new album, it didn’t take long to make the decision. It’s a great honor to be able to release the next album from this unique and ambitious band.” says Riku Pääkkönen.

This time around, the collaboration came together effortlessly, driven by a shared enthusiasm from the start.

”Things have felt right with Ranka from the very first meeting. Despite such a long creative break, they immediately believed in what we’re doing and gave us the opportunity to take on and complete our most ambitious and biggest project to date, Whispered’s fourth album.”

The band comments and adds about the single:

”‘Ikikaere’ is the first single from the upcoming record, and it only reveals a fraction of what’s to come. Our fastest track so far delivers an intense sense of rebirth, just as the name suggests, along with a massive atmosphere.”

The visually striking music video for the track, directed by the band’s driving force Jouni Valjakka, will be premiered today at 5pm CET here.

With the new release, Whispered will also return to the live stage. The band will perform throughout the year both in Finland and internationally. The run begins on May 9 at On The Rocks in Helsinki, followed by a European tour in late May and a series of summer festival appearances.

Already announced shows are:

• 09.05.2026 – On The Rocks, Helsinki

European tour:

• 23.05.2026 – Stellwerk, Hamburg
• 24.05.2026 – Stengade, Copenhagen
• 25.05.2026 – Helvete, Oberhausen
• 26.05.2026 – Musigburg, Aarburg
• 28.05.2026 – Club DVG, Kortrijk
• 29.05.2026 – Hellraiser, Leipzig
• 30.05.2026 – Subzero, Prague
• 31.05.2026 – Club Gwarek, Krakow
• 10.07.2026 – Dark River Festival, Kotka
• 15.08.2026 – Saarihelvetti, Tampere

Orders to all warriors: stream the new track relentlessly and march to the shows in full force to witness the return of the shogunate. Ikikaere! – Whispered

Lineup:
Jouni Valjakka – Vocals, Guitar
Mikko Mattila – Guitar
Olli Paajanen – Bass
Filip Gäddnäs – Drums