What makes Manala by Korpiklaani notable?

Upon its release, 'Manala' achieved notable chart success, reaching the top ten in Finland and solidifying Korpiklaani's reputation internationally within the folk metal genre. The album's thematic exploration of Finnish folklore and supernatural elements resonated with fans, further influencing the folk metal movement and inspiring other artists to delve into similar themes. When 'Manala' was released in 2012, Korpiklaani was already established as a leading force in the folk metal scene, following their breakthrough album 'Tales Along This Road' in 2007. This album marked a continued evolution of their sound, incorporating more diverse influences while retaining their characteristic humppa style.

Manala works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance energy, invigorating storytelling through sound and celebratory communal listening experience.

How many songs are on Manala?

Manala has 13 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Manala

Korpiklaani · 2012

49 min · 13 tracks · folk metal

Folk melodies intertwine with heavy metal riffs, creating a vibrant celebration of Finnish mythology and nature.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Kunnia — Opening with vigorous energy, this track sets the tone for the entire album with its anthemic quality and traditional Finnish instrumentation.
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Ievan polkka — This rendition of a classic folk tune showcases the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with their heavy sound, making it a fan favorite during live performances.
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Metsälle — A standout on the album, this track's haunting lyrics reflect on nature and hunting, embodying Korpiklaani's connection to Finnish heritage.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Korpiklaani's 'Manala' showcases strong folk-metal fusion with engaging melodies but lacks some cohesion in its track arrangement.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel typical of folk music.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady mid-tempo dance energy
invigorating storytelling through sound
celebratory communal listening experience
ancient tales with vibrant melodies

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
dislike engaging with narrative flow

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Solidified Korpiklaani's international reputation with its thematic depth and chart success.
Career context: When 'Manala' was released in 2012, Korpiklaani was already established as a leading force in the folk metal scene, following their breakthrough album 'Tales Along This Road' in 2007. This album marked a continued evolution of their sound, incorporating more diverse influences while retaining their characteristic humppa style.
Stylistic neighbors: Finntroll· Eluveitie· Ensiferum