KARU's "Perdition": symphonic death metal meets Japanese folklore in an epic journey. For fans of Wintersun, Nightwish, Mors Principium Est.

Symphonic Death Metal from Finland takes a bold, cinematic turn with 'Perdition', the second full-length from KARU. Formed in 2017 by guitarist Kalle Pöyskö and vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Niko Hienonen, the band has built a reputation for merging crushing riffs, guttural growls and sweeping orchestration into cohesive concept albums. Joined by lead guitar virtuoso Toni Tieaho (Crystalic, Existence Depraved, ex-Mors Principium Est), KARU has elevated their sound to new heights.

Following the acclaimed 2024 debut 'Hydra', 'Perdition' transports listeners to feudal Japan weaving a tale of a village destroyed by demons and a lone survivor's journey through haunted forests toward purpose and survival. Inspired by Japanese folklore and nature, the album integrates Asian folk instruments, nature soundscapes and even Japanese-language narration to create an immersive world.

Musically, 'Perdition' pushes the KARU blueprint forward--introducing clean vocals, more intricate orchestrations and dynamic songwriting while retaining their trademark mix of brutality and beauty. From the monumental opener 'Shadow War' to the sprawling title track, each song is a chapter in a sweeping story, balancing epic symphonic arrangements with razor-sharp melodic death metal precision.

Produced, mixed and mastered by Niko Hienonen in the Tampere region, the record boasts a polished yet powerful sound perfectly balancing cinematic depth and metallic aggression. For fans of Wintersun, Nightwish, Shadow Of Intent, Omnium Gatherum and Mors Principium Est, 'Perdition' offers a rich, emotionally charged journey best experienced from start to finish--ideally in one sitting with a drink in hand.

Line-up:

Niko Hienonen - Vocals, Bass, Orchestration, Production
Kalle Pöyskö - Guitars
Toni Tieaho - Lead Guitars

Track Listing

• Shores of Mist and Blood
• Shadow War
• Alone in the Forest
• Embers in the Skies
• Trail of Fire
• Path of the Unforgiven
• Perdition

Additional Details

Label: Rockshots Records

Genre: Metal

Language: English

Run Time: 45:27 mins

Region: 0

Release Date: 11/21/25

UPC: 8051128623048