Hailing from Hämeenlinna, Finland, Turisas has carved a unique path in the metal scene. Their sound, a potent blend of folk, symphonic, and power metal, is punctuated by the epic tales of war and history, often drawing inspiration from Finnish mythology and the exploits of the Varangian Guard. This article delves into the history of Turisas, exploring their rise from teenage boredom to becoming a force in the metal world.
Early Days: Seeds of Battle Metal (1997-2003)
The story of Turisas begins in 1997 when teenagers Mathias Nygård and Jussi Wickström, fueled by youthful energy and a love for metal, decided to form a band. Named after Turisas, the ancient Finnish god of war, their initial sound lacked the folk influences that would later define them. The early years were marked by experimentation, with influences ranging from Amorphis to Belphegor shaping their sound.
However, the lack of a readily available “folk metal” genre at the time didn’t deter them. They honed their skills, playing local gigs and writing music. A crucial turning point came in 2003 when Nygård completed his mandatory military service. With renewed focus, the band recorded a demo and secured a record deal with Century Media, a significant step in their journey.
Battle Metal: A Genre-Defying Debut (2004-2007)
The year 2004 marked a turning point for Turisas with the release of their debut album, “Battle Metal.” This aptly titled album showcased their unique blend of aggressive metal riffs, soaring vocals (both clean and harsh), and captivating folk melodies. The use of the electric violin as a lead instrument, instead of the traditional guitar solo, added a distinct character to their sound. Tracks like “One More” and “In the Shadow of the Mountain” became instant fan favorites, establishing Turisas as a force to be reckoned with.
To support the album, the band embarked on a European tour, often incorporating guest musicians playing instruments like violins and accordions, further emphasizing the folk elements. Tragedy struck in 2005 when guitarist Georg Laakso suffered a severe spinal cord injury in a car accident. Forced to leave the band permanently, Laakso’s absence was a significant blow. However, Turisas persevered, channeling their grief into their next album.
The Varangian Way: Tales of Viking Mercenaries (2007-2011)
Emerging from adversity, Turisas released “The Varangian Way” in 2007. This concept album delved into the historical exploits of the Varangian Guard, Scandinavian warriors who served the Byzantine Empire. Tracks like “To Holmgard and Kiev” and “Stand Up and Fight” became anthems, capturing the spirit of Viking courage and brotherhood. The album solidified their reputation for weaving historical narratives into their music, further establishing their own subgenre within metal – “battle metal.”
Their live shows became a spectacle, with the band members adorned in war paint and wielding replica Viking weaponry. The energy and theatricality resonated with audiences worldwide, propelling Turisas to international recognition. They toured extensively, sharing stages with metal giants like Nightwish and In Flames.
Beyond Battles: Evolution and Experimentation (2011-Present)
The band’s third album, “Stand Up and Fight,” released in 2011, continued the historical theme while showcasing a further evolution in their sound. Tracks like “The Great Escape” incorporated more progressive elements, with complex arrangements and tempo changes. While still maintaining their signature sound, Turisas demonstrated their willingness to experiment.
However, the band experienced lineup changes in the following years, with some founding members departing. This led to a shift in focus for their 2013 self-titled album, “Turisas.” The historical themes became less prominent, with the lyrics exploring broader, more personal themes. Despite the stylistic change, the album showcased their musical prowess, with intricate instrumentation and powerful vocals.
Since then, Turisas has maintained a relatively low profile, with occasional live performances and hints of new material. Whether they return to the epic historical narratives or continue exploring new sonic territories, their legacy as pioneers of battle metal remains secure. Turisas’ unique blend of aggression, melody, and historical themes has earned them a dedicated fanbase and a place in the annals of metal history.
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