Ukon wacka cover

Ukon wacka

Korpiklaani · 2011

44 min · 11 tracks · folk metal

Folk metal revelry intertwines with lively humppa rhythms, creating a festive atmosphere that invites both dancing and storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Tequila — This track stands out with its playful lyrics and catchy melody, showcasing the band's humorous side while maintaining a lively energy that encapsulates the album's spirit.
  • →
    Ukon wacka — The title track embodies the fusion of folk traditions and heavy instrumentation, acting as a centerpiece that highlights Korpiklaani’s cultural roots and musical innovation.
  • →
    Lonkkaluut — With its infectious rhythm and engaging narrative, this song illustrates the band's ability to weave storytelling into their music, making it a memorable highlight of the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100
Foothills
Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album blends folk and metal effectively but lacks strong cohesion in its pacing and structure.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocals, enhancing the communal and festive feel typical of folk music.
  • The tempo varies significantly across the tracks, with some songs maintaining a fast-paced humppa rhythm while others slow down for storytelling moments.
  • The final track serves as a high-energy closer, contrasting with the more narrative-driven pieces earlier in the album.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • vibrant, celebratory atmospheres
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • short, punchy listening bursts

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Korpiklaani's growing international recognition in folk metal.
Career context
Ukon Wacka is Korpiklaani's sixth studio album, released in 2011 during a period of growing international recognition following their previous album, Karkelo. The band was solidifying its place in the folk metal scene, having gained traction with their energetic performances and distinctive blend of traditional Finnish music and metal elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Finntroll· Eluveitie· Ensiferum

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Päät pois tai hirteen

    The narrative shifts from whimsical tones to darker themes regarding choices and consequences, reflecting a stark contrast in mood.

    This juxtaposition underscores the lyrical depth within Korpiklaani’s work, demonstrating their skillful navigation between humor and seriousness.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Louhen yhdeksäs poika 3:23
  • 2 Päät pois tai hirteen 3:14
  • 3 Tuoppi oltta 3:34
  • 4 Lonkkaluut 5:39
  • 5 Tequila 2:42
  • 6 Ukon wacka 5:08
  • 7 Korvesta liha 4:31
  • 8 Koivu ja tähti 4:17
  • 9 Vaarinpolkka 2:19
  • 10 Surma 6:20
  • 11 Iron Fist 2:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata