Dolorian
Finnish doom metal band known for varied structures and spiritual lyrics.
Dolorian is a Finnish doom metal act from Oulu, formed in mid-1997 by the duo A. Haapapuro and A. Kukkohovi. The band distinguishes itself within the genre through its diverse songwriting, shifting vocal approaches, and cryptic, spiritually themed lyrics. Their early demos were cut at Tico-Tico Studios with temporary keyboardist H. Riihinen, leading to a deal with Wounded Love Records. In April 1998, with new keyboard player J. Ontero, they recorded their debut album *When All the Laughter Has Gone*, released in 1999. A self-titled second album followed in 2001, earning a nine-out-of-ten rating from *Chronicles of Chaos*, which hailed it as a “remarkable achievement.” In 2002, Dolorian recorded material for a split with Shining, but label issues delayed its release until 2004. Their third album, *Voidwards*, arrived in 2006. Since then, the band has been on hold, with all members now focused on dark ambient projects, likely diverting their attention from Dolorian.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Oulu, Finland
- Genre
- Doom metal, avant-garde metal
- Years Active
- 1997–present (on hold since 2006)
- Label
- Wounded Love Records
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Dolorian recorded their first demos at Tico-Tico Studios with temporary keyboard player H. Riihinen. They were subsequently signed with Wounded Love Records. In April 1998, with new keyboard player J. Ontero, they recorded their debut album When All the Laughter Has Gone, released in 1999. The following year, the band recorded their second album, entitled simply Dolorian. Chronicles of Chaos rated the album nine out of ten, calling it a 'remarkable achievement by Dolorian.'
In 2002, Dolorian recorded songs for a split release with Shining, but record label problems delayed its release until 2004. In 2006, the band released their third album, Voidwards. The band has been on hold since then. All of its members are involved in dark ambient projects, which has likely shifted their concentration away from Dolorian.
Reader's Guide
Dolorian's significance lies in their distinctive approach to doom metal, blending varied song structures, multiple vocal styles, and obscure spiritual lyrics. Their second album, Dolorian, received critical acclaim from Chronicles of Chaos, which rated it nine out of ten and called it a 'remarkable achievement.' The band's discography includes three studio albums: When All the Laughter Has Gone (1999), Dolorian (2001), and Voidwards (2006). Despite being on hold since 2006, the band's members remain active in dark ambient projects. Dolorian's legacy endures as a notable act within the Finnish doom metal scene, particularly for their experimental and atmospheric sound.
Did You Know?
- Dolorian was founded in mid-1997 as a duo consisting of A. Haapapuro and A. Kukkohovi.
- Their debut album When All the Laughter Has Gone was recorded in April 1998 and released in 1999.
- Chronicles of Chaos rated their second album Dolorian nine out of ten.
- The band has been on hold since 2006, with all members involved in dark ambient projects.
More in Avant-garde metal musical groups 1-24
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