What makes Hope by Swallow the Sun notable?

The album was well-received, securing a place in the hearts of fans and critics alike, marking a significant entry in the Finnish doom metal genre. Its exploration of heavy lyrical themes and atmospheric soundscapes has influenced subsequent artists in the scene, cementing Swallow the Sun's status as key players in modern doom metal. Released in 2007, 'Hope' is Swallow the Sun's third studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'Ghosts of Loss.' At this point in their career, the band had solidified their reputation within the doom metal scene, showcasing a matured sound that combines melodic elements with deep, melancholic themes.

Hope works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, steady emotional exploration and contemplative late-night moods.

How many songs are on Hope?

Hope has 8 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Hope

Swallow the Sun · 2007

57 min · 8 tracks · doom metal

Ethereal melodies intertwine with heavy, brooding riffs, creating a haunting atmosphere that captures the essence of despair and longing.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hope — The title track encapsulates the album's emotional core, balancing melodic beauty with crushing heaviness as it explores existential themes.
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These Hours of Despair — This track showcases intricate guitar work paired with poignant melodies, highlighting the band's ability to evoke deep feelings of sorrow and reflection.
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The Justice of Suffering — With its dynamic shifts between serene passages and powerful crescendos, this song exemplifies the band's skill in blending melody with intensity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album effectively combines heavy riffs with ethereal melodies, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a slow, atmospheric build-up that gradually introduces heavy guitar riffs and layered vocals.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that emphasize mood over traditional song structure, often lingering on melancholic melodies.
The album's pacing is deliberate, with most songs exceeding six minutes, allowing for gradual development of themes and motifs.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
steady emotional exploration
contemplative late-night moods
haunting, atmospheric soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2007, 'Hope' is Swallow the Sun's third studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'Ghosts of Loss.' At this point in their career, the band had solidified their reputation within the doom metal scene, showcasing a matured sound that combines melodic elements with deep, melancholic themes.
Stylistic neighbors: My Dying Bride· Anathema· Paradise Lost