What makes Unsung Heroes by Ensiferum notable?

Unsung Heroes debuted at number 12 on the Finnish Albums Chart and received positive reviews for its ambitious compositions and thematic depth. It marked a significant point in Ensiferum's career, showcasing their ability to blend intricate storytelling with powerful melodies, influencing the folk metal scene during the early 2010s. Released in 2012, Unsung Heroes is Ensiferum's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed From Afar. At this point, the band solidified their unique sound in the folk metal genre while continuing to build on their established fanbase and expanding their musical horizons.

Who is Unsung Heroes for?

Unsung Heroes works well if you're into epic tales of valor, dynamic journey with crescendos and wave-like pacing and flow.

How many songs are on Unsung Heroes?

Unsung Heroes has 10 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

Unsung Heroes

Ensiferum · 2012

61 min · 10 tracks · power metal

Epic melodies intertwine with folk instrumentation and fierce growls, creating a rich tapestry of sound that celebrates myth and heroism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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In My Sword I Trust — This track encapsulates the album's spirit, combining soaring vocals with aggressive instrumentation that reflects themes of honor and battle.
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Unsung Heroes — The title track serves as a powerful anthem celebrating those who live without recognition, featuring both melodic and heavy elements that define Ensiferum's style.
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Passion, Proof, Power — At 17 minutes long, this epic closer blends various musical styles into a cohesive narrative journey, demonstrating the band's technical prowess and storytelling ability.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions with varied instrumentation but lacks some cohesion in pacing.

What we noticed

Folk instrumentation, such as flutes and violins, is prominently featured alongside electric guitars, blending traditional and modern elements.
Several tracks exceed the six-minute mark, allowing for extended instrumental passages and thematic development.
The final track incorporates a slower tempo and orchestral elements, providing a contrasting conclusion to the album's intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
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

epic tales of valor
dynamic journey with crescendos
wave-like pacing and flow
immersive storytelling experience
energizing for workout sessions

Maybe skip if you

prefer immediate gratification
seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2012, Unsung Heroes is Ensiferum's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed From Afar. At this point, the band solidified their unique sound in the folk metal genre while continuing to build on their established fanbase and expanding their musical horizons.
Stylistic neighbors: Korpiklaani· Finntroll· Eluveitie