TURISAS Embark On The Varangian Way; Set U.S. Release
June 5, 2007, 17 years ago
Finnish warmongers TURISAS continue to establish their definitive brand of battle metal on their sophomore effort The Varangian Way, which is set for a July 17th U.S. release. The album was co-produced by the band’s own Warlord (vocals) and Janne Saksa at Sound Supreme Studio and mixed and mastered at Finnvox Studio (H.I.M., NIGHTWISH).
Head here to sample new music and video performance clips.
Central to The Varangian Way is the group’s concept of a journey through the East-European river route through the lands of modern day East Europe. The Northmen who traveled this path in the 9th-11th centuries were called Varangians. Key to the album’s concept is a search for self and identity, both of which are explored by the protagonist in The Varangian Way’s eight songs. Truly a display of the band’s dedication to the conceptual elements of the album, Turisas made sure to include cultural influences from the lands the Varangians would have traveled through.
Due to the warm reception of their highly acclaimed debut, Battle Metal, the band wanted the new album to sound like a natural progression on that sound while reflecting a greater maturity.
Warlord had the following to say about the release: “The sound is big, pompous and orchestral, but also features a lot of progressive elements and ethnic influences. It's a daring blend of many different styles, but I'm confident that people are musically open minded enough to swallow this album.”
