On the shortest day of the year of 2025, Ilmarinen released Ascension, the first chapter of their two‑part concept album. Since its release, the album has been warmly received within the Dutch metal scene. Multiple reviewers highlight the band’s growth, atmosphere, and distinctive blend of folk and metal, with RockPortaal describing the album as “uplifting yet epic folk metal”.
Thematically, Ascension tells the first half of the story of Ragnar Lodbrok and his rise to power. We follow his journey eastward where the listener is drawn into the Finnish mythology of the Kalevala. Musically, Ascension builds upon the sound established with their EP Gold (2023), while adding more layers of orchestral textures, hard-hitting riffs, and earworm melodies that stay with you for days. Ascension moves fluidly between bright folk melodies, delicate orchestral passages, and full‑scale metal climaxes.
Over the years, Ilmarinen has steadily carved a name for themselves in the Dutch and international metal scene. With Ascension they leave behind the jolly vibe of Gold, and show a more serious side of themselves both technically and artistically, while remaining remarkably accessible.
For fans of Turisas, Ensiferum and Finntroll, Ascension offers a fresh yet familiar take on richly layered, story‑driven folk metal. Ascension is now available on all streaming platforms.
