04/07/2025
Before Jari Mรคenpรครค went off to craft his epic soundscapes with Wintersun, he was the voice and creative force behind Ensiferum, one of Finlandโs earliest and most influential Pagan/Folk Metal bands. And while their debut album was already a strong start, itโs their second record, Iron, that really set a new standard.
Released in 2004, Iron took everything from the debutโmelody, speed, and that folky Viking vibeโand leveled it up. It sounds more polished, more confident, and just more complete overall. The production is tighter, the songwriting sharper, and the energy is off the charts.
The opening track, Iron, kicks things off with fast riffs and that classic folk-meets-metal drive. Itโs catchy but still aggressive, which is a theme throughout the album. Tale of Revenge brings in some great melodic shifts, keeping things interesting without losing momentum. And then thereโs Slayer of Light, which leans heavily into blast beats and intensityโalmost like an early preview of the more extreme style Jari would explore later with Wintersun.
Into Battle is basically a folk metal anthem. It's fast, fun, and feels like it was made to be shouted along to in a muddy festival field. But the standout track for many fans is Lai Lai Hei. Sung partly in Finnish, itโs a bit slower and more emotional, but still heavy. Itโs one of those songs that brings everyone togetherโwhether or not they understand the lyricsโjust because the mood is so strong.
What really makes Iron special is how well it blends everything: the folk instruments and melodies donโt feel forced, and the metal side never gets buried. You can hear where Jariโs ideas for Wintersun started, but Iron is still very much an Ensiferum albumโbold, catchy, and full of heart.
If youโre into folk metal and somehow havenโt checked this one out, Iron is essential and a true classic for the genre!
