Far From the Sun

Released in 2003, Far From the Sun marks the end of the Pasi Koskinen era for Amorphis and serves as a bridge between their experimental 90s output and the more structured melodic metal of their later years. It is notable for being the first album since 1994 to feature original drummer Jan Rechberger, bringing back a piece of the band's foundational chemistry. Sonically, the album is a departure from the more polished, electronic-tinged 'Am Universum', opting for a drier, more guitar-driven sound that incorporates heavy influences from 1970s progressive rock and psychedelic folk. The use of sitar-like guitar effects and prominent Hammond organ gives the record a unique 'Eastern' mystical quality that distinguishes it from its peers. While it was met with some critical division at the time for its lack of growled vocals and slower tempo, it has since been recognized as a high point for the band's atmospheric songwriting and a quintessential example of the 'Finnish Melancholy' sound.