KARU
PERDITION

From the frozen landscapes of Finland, symphonic death metal visionaries KARU return with their most ambitious and immersive work to date, “Perdition”. Formed in 2017 as a studio project, KARU quickly made a name for themselves by fusing punishing melodic death metal with sweeping orchestral arrangements, crafting concept albums designed to be experienced as cohesive stories. With the addition of acclaimed lead guitarist Toni Tieaho (Crystalic, Existence Depraved, ex-Mors Principium Est), the band’s sound has evolved into something truly monumental. Following the critical success of their debut full-length “Hydra” (2024), “Perdition” takes listeners deep into the heart of feudal Japan, blending the brutality of metal with the elegance and mystique of Asian folk traditions. The album’s narrative follows a lone survivor whose village is destroyed by demons, forcing him to journey through enchanted forests and spiritual trials in search of purpose and redemption. The concept draws inspiration from Japanese folklore, spirituality and nature — every forest having a soul of its own. This vivid world is brought to life through the use of traditional Asian instruments, atmospheric nature recordings and Japanese-language narration by a voice actor creating a cinematic soundscape unlike anything in the band’s catalog. Musically, “Perdition” expands on KARU’s core formula: crushing riffs, guttural growls and thunderous percussion contrasted with amazing orchestral melodies and—new for this release—powerful clean vocals. The arrangements are intricate yet fluid, with each track representing a chapter in the overarching story ranging from the relentless assault of “Shadow War” to the haunting beauty of “Alone in the Forest” and the epic, multi-part title track. Produced, mixed and mastered by Hienonen in the Tampere region, “Perdition” achieves a perfect balance between clarity and weight, delivering both cinematic depth and unrelenting heaviness. The result is an album designed for full-immersion listening—best enjoyed from start to finish, drink in hand, as the story unfolds. For fans of Wintersun, Nightwish, Mors Principium Est, Brymir, Children of Bodom and Omnium Gatherum, “Perdition” is both a sonic journey and a testament to KARU’s evolution as storytellers and composers. With its 45:27 runtime and meticulous attention to detail, this album stands as a bold statement from a band ready to conquer new audiences both at home and abroad.