Amorphis takes the prize for one of this year’s most inappropriate album titles. There’s nothing silent about these waters, that’s for sure.

‘Silent Waters’ cements what Amorphis already stated with 2006’s ‘Eclipse’: the Finns have regained their strength.

Tomi Joutsen yet again proves that he’s the right man behind the microphone for Amorphis as he flies through both melodic song and growl in equal scores.

The melody filled guitar harmonies that became Amorphis’ trademark on ‘Tales of a Thousand Lakes’ and ‘Elegy’ are here in abundance, and it is a joy to hear. The production is impeccable, crisp and clear, and leaves room for everyone in the band.

Compared to ‘Eclipse’, I don’t think the artistic progress is immense, but ‘Silent Waters’ does have a bit more finesse. The harder songs have a bit more edge, and the softer parts are a touch more sensitive. E.g. the triumvirate of the ballads I Of Crimson Blood, Her Alone and Enigma are truly amazing and beautifully crafted, each with their subdued tension.

The album is more or less divided into two parts, the first half of the album being the hardest and the second being the most mellow. So there's something for everyone here as well as those, like me, who likes both.

Try it, and your girlfriend might even like it...the second half, anyway...

Can’t wait to see these guys at Wacken!