Metsatöll

Lore & Background

Metsatöll began playing together on 24 February 1999 as a three-piece: Markus on vocals and guitar, Factor on drums, and Andrus on bass. Their debut album 'Terast mis hangund me hinge' was released that year. In late 1999, Varulven joined, having taught himself ancient Estonian folk instruments, and the band realized that metal and old Estonian folk fit perfectly together. Their music increasingly intertwined with runo-singing and traditional melodies.

In 2001, bassist Andrus left and was replaced by KuriRaivo. In 2002, the single 'Hundi loomine' was released with a video directed by Liina Paakspuu, receiving positive reviews.

Drummer Factor left in early 2004 and was replaced by Atso. The second album 'Hiiekoda' (2004) was critically acclaimed. In 2005, a remake of their debut album was released as 'Terast mis hangunud me hinge 10218', more influenced by folk music.

In 2009, Metsatöll signed with Spinefarm Records and released 'Äio' in 2010. The album 'Ulg' (2011) was nominated for the Estonian Music Awards in the 'Metal Album of the Year' category. In 2012, they played the main stage of Tuska Open Air Metal Festival in Helsinki and later released a concert album 'Tuska' from that performance.

Reader's Guide

Metsatöll's significance lies in their integration of ancient Estonian folk instruments and themes into heavy metal, reviving pre-Christian Estonian imagery and language. Their work, such as the album 'Hiiekoda' and the single 'Hundi loomine', was noted for countering English-language cultural influence and promoting Estonian folklore through contemporary means.

The band's use of archaic Estonian in titles and lyrics, along with references to 13th- and 14th-century independence wars, connects modern metal with national heritage. Their signing to Spinefarm Records in 2009 and performance at Tuska Open Air in 2012 brought them international exposure. The band's legacy includes multiple studio albums, live albums, and a compilation, with ongoing activity into the 2020s.