Amorphis: Bones + Lights And Shadow (2025, Reigning Phoenix Music)

With over three decades of musical evolution behind them, Finnish metal veterans Amorphis continue to defy genre boundaries and expectations. Their latest singles, “Lights And Shadows” and “Bones,” released in anticipation of their upcoming album, offer a compelling glimpse into a band that remains both rooted in tradition and unafraid to explore new sonic landscapes. These tracks are not just songs—they are meditations on duality, transformation, and the human condition, wrapped in a rich tapestry of melodic death metal, progressive rock, and Nordic melancholy.

Lights And Shadows opens with a shimmering, almost ethereal keyboard motif that quickly gives way to a driving guitar riff—classic Amorphis in its juxtaposition of beauty and brutality. The track’s structure is dynamic, shifting between soaring clean vocals and guttural growls, a technique that vocalist Tomi Joutsen has mastered over the years. His delivery here is particularly nuanced: the clean sections evoke introspection and vulnerability, while the growls inject urgency and emotional weight.

Lyrically, the song explores the interplay between light and darkness—not just as external forces, but as internal states. Lines like “In the mirror of the soul, shadows dance with light” suggest a philosophical bent, reminiscent of the band’s earlier work inspired by the Kalevala, Finland’s national epic. However, there’s a modern edge to the writing, more abstract and universal, allowing listeners to project their own interpretations.

Musically, the track is a masterclass in layering. Esa Holopainen’s guitar work is both melodic and muscular, weaving harmonies with Santeri Kallio’s keyboards that feel cinematic in scope. The rhythm section—Olli-Pekka Laine on bass and Jan Rechberger on drums—anchors the song with precision, allowing the more atmospheric elements to soar without losing momentum.

The chorus is particularly memorable, with a hook that feels both triumphant and haunting. It’s the kind of melody that lingers long after the song ends, a testament to Amorphis’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music within a metal framework.

If Lights And Shadows is about contrast, Bones is about decay and rebirth. This track is slower, heavier, and more introspective, leaning into doom metal territory while retaining the band’s signature melodic sensibility. From the opening notes, there’s a palpable sense of weight—not just in the instrumentation, but in the atmosphere. The guitars are tuned lower, the tempo more deliberate, and the production more cavernous.

Joutsen’s vocals here are restrained, almost mournful. His growls are less aggressive and more sorrowful, while the clean vocals carry a sense of resignation. The lyrics delve into themes of mortality, impermanence, and the cyclical nature of existence. “We are dust, we are bones / Carved by time, buried in stone”—these lines evoke imagery of ancient ruins and forgotten lives, fitting seamlessly into Amorphis’s long-standing fascination with myth and memory.

The instrumentation is sparse but effective. The guitar solos are melancholic, not flashy, and the keyboard textures add a ghostly layer to the mix. There’s a subtle orchestral presence—strings and choral elements—that elevate the track without overwhelming it. It’s a slow burn, but one that rewards repeated listens with its emotional depth and sonic richness. Both tracks benefit from pristine production that balances clarity with atmosphere. The mix allows each instrument to breathe, highlighting the interplay between melody and rhythm. There’s a warmth to the sound that contrasts with the lyrical darkness, creating a sense of emotional complexity.

Producer Jens Bogren, who has worked with Amorphis on several previous albums, once again proves his ability to bring out the best in the band. His touch is evident in the layering, the dynamics, and the overall cohesion of the tracks. These songs feel meticulously crafted, yet never sterile—they retain a sense of organic flow that’s essential to Amorphis’s identity.

Both Lights And Shadows and Bones mark a continuation of the sonic journey Amorphis began with albums like Under the Red Cloud and Queen of Time. There’s a clear progression in terms of songwriting maturity and thematic depth. While earlier works leaned heavily on Finnish folklore, these new tracks feel more introspective and universal, exploring existential themes that resonate across cultures.

At the same time, the band hasn’t abandoned its roots. The folk-inspired melodies, the dual vocal approach, and the emphasis on atmosphere are all present. What’s changed is the emotional palette—there’s more subtlety, more ambiguity, and a greater willingness to sit with discomfort.

Amorphis has always been a band of transformation—both musically and thematically. With these new two singles they reaffirm their status as one of metal’s most thoughtful and innovative acts. These songs are not just additions to their discography; they are statements of intent, signaling a band that continues to evolve without losing sight of what makes them unique. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, these singles offer a rich listening experience that rewards attention and reflection. They are heavy, yes—but also beautiful, poetic, and deeply human.