Havukruunu – Tavastland

Yes, I decided to be early with this one. Those who know the game understand that Havukruunu has become one of the hidden gems of the Black/Folk Metal scene. It’s the less dramatic but more aggressive Moonsorrow style that, for many, was exactly what Folk Metal needed to stop being a gimmicky parody of the genre, where all those bagpipes and accordions in choruses were getting a bit old. I wasn’t sure what to expect from Tavastland, but does it deliver? Let’s find out.

In a way, Tavastland is everything Havukruunu fans have grown to love. This epic journey to the dark woods, rebellious times, and its mysteries continues. There’s always been a retro feeling to the band’s work, and it’s never been more present than here. It’s not only a call to ancient times but also incorporates old-school Heavy Metal ideas that, in lesser hands, could feel derivative. Yet, the band knows how to weave it all together with a sense of pace, tension, and release that’s hard to find in Black/Folk Metal, where the writing style often stays too direct.

Havukruunu has no problem making its songs more elaborate and complex than before. Granted, this isn’t Tech Death, but there are transitions, long sections, and just straight-up mean riffs that add layers of detail to Tavastland. It actually feels wild and fun—how many Black Metal albums can say that lately? In a world where so many bands take themselves way too seriously and act like their fish dying was the tragedy that defined their lives, Tavastland achieves a magnificent middle point between darkness and light. Yes, the tracks are mysterious and deeo, but also bombastic and catchy. Plus, when was the last time you heard Black/Folk Metal with decent guitar solos? I can’t recall.

I don’t have all that much to complain about, just my two obnoxious comments of the day. First, the mix is a bit thin for my taste. Sure, you can hear the bass, and I get that’s what makes it feel more old-school, but I can’t help feeling it’s lacking some punching power. Then there’s the length—this is an epic journey, and when you close with the longest track on the album, that’s always a gamble. It mostly pays off, but as usual, can we just forget about all the talking? Don’t tell me—show me what you’re all about!

Tavastland is another solid addition to Havukruunu’s catalog. It might not be a dramatic change to the formula, but if it’s not broken, why fix it? The band keeps perfecting a style that many had written off long ago (including your feline majesty here). Last year, Folk Metal had a shy performance, but so far, this year is looking more promising in that regard. So, hardcore fans, it’s time to scream and get excited!

Label: Svart Records

Release date: February 28, 2025

Website: https://havukruunu.bandcamp.com/

Country: Finland

Score: 4.0/5.0 Final score!