Moonsorrow, a Finnish pagan metal group formed in Helsinki in 1995, began with cousins Ville Sorvali on vocals and bass and Henri Sorvali on guitar and keyboards; both later contributed to the band’s distinct blend of black and folk metal. The duo released early demos that were more melodic black metal before their debut album Suden Uni in 2001, which fused Finnish paganism with folk elements. After adding guitarist Mitja Harvilahti and keyboardist Markus Eurén, Moonsorrow issued Voimasta Ja Kunniasta in late 2001, followed by Kivenkantaja in 2003 and Verisäkeet in 2005, the latter introducing ambient sounds between tracks. The band’s first U.S. appearance came in January 2006, and that March they signed a two-album deal with Spinefarm Records, releasing Viides Luku – Hävitetty in January 2007, an album noted for its progressive rock influence. A 2008 EP, Tulimyrsky, featured a new title track, remakes, and covers. In 2010 Moonsorrow recorded Varjoina Kuljemme Kuolleiden Maassa, released in February 2011. The group switched to Century Media in 2012, and in 2016 released Jumalten Aika. A 2014 vinyl box set, Heritage: 1995-2008 – The Collected Works, compiled fourteen LPs. The band has remained active, touring internationally and maintaining a reputation for epic, spiritually driven music, while distancing itself from extremist accusations.
