Procession - A Haunting Melodic Tapestry Interlaced With Ferocious Rhythmic Riffs

Procession - A Haunting Melodic Tapestry Interlaced With Ferocious Rhythmic Riffs

Procession, a track from Amorphis’ 2003 album Harakiri, isn’t just another heavy metal song; it’s an auditory journey through the Finnish band’s signature blend of melodic death metal and melancholic progressive elements. This masterpiece effortlessly weaves haunting melodies with ferocious rhythmic riffs, creating a sonic landscape that is both captivating and intensely powerful.

To understand the depth and complexity of “Procession,” we need to delve into Amorphis’ history. Formed in 1990, this Helsinki-based quintet carved their niche in the burgeoning melodic death metal scene. Their early albums like Tales From The Thousand Lakes (1994) and Elegy (1996) showcased a unique approach – incorporating Finnish folklore and mythology into their music, blending growling vocals with beautiful, melodic interludes.

By the time 2003 rolled around, Amorphis had already undergone several lineup changes and stylistic evolutions. Harakiri marked a significant shift towards a more progressive sound, while retaining their trademark melodic sensibilities. “Procession” perfectly exemplifies this transformation.

The track opens with a haunting acoustic guitar melody played by Esa Holopainen, the band’s lead guitarist. This melancholic opening sets a contemplative mood, immediately drawing the listener into the song’s narrative. The clean vocals of Tomi Joutsen soon enter, delivering lyrics that speak of introspection and loss – themes deeply ingrained in Finnish folklore.

Then, the rhythm section kicks in with bassist Niclas Etelävuori laying down a driving bassline and drummer Jan Rechberger unleashing a torrent of double-bass drumming. The music explodes into a maelstrom of aggressive riffs and growling vocals, showcasing Holopainen’s masterful guitar work – intricate solos interwoven with crushing rhythms.

Throughout the song, Amorphis seamlessly transitions between heavy sections and melodic interludes. This dynamic ebb and flow keeps the listener constantly engaged, preventing any sense of monotony. The interplay between Joutsen’s harsh growls and his surprisingly soulful clean vocals adds another layer of complexity to the music.

The structure of “Procession” is noteworthy:

  • Intro: Haunting acoustic guitar melody setting a melancholic mood (0:00 - 0:45)

  • Verse 1: Clean vocals begin, lyrics explore themes of introspection and loss (0:46 – 1:30)

  • Chorus: Intense growls enter, driving rhythm section intensifies (1:31 – 2:10)

  • Verse 2: Tempo slows down slightly, clean vocals return with a mournful melody (2:11 – 3:00)

  • Bridge: Extended instrumental section featuring intricate guitar solos and powerful drumming (3:01 – 4:15)

  • Chorus: Returns with increased intensity, showcasing the song’s climax (4:16 - 5:05)

  • Outro: Fades out gradually with a haunting repetition of the acoustic guitar melody (5:06-5:30)

Beyond its musical brilliance, “Procession” stands as a testament to Amorphis’ lyrical depth. Drawing inspiration from Finnish mythology and literature, they weave tales of loss, struggle, and ultimately, acceptance.

The Influence of Finnish Folklore:

Amorphis has always been deeply connected to their Finnish roots. Their music frequently explores themes found in Kalevala, the Finnish national epic. “Procession” itself, though not directly based on a specific myth, captures the melancholic essence often present in Finnish folklore. This connection adds a unique layer of cultural richness to the song.

“Procession” and Amorphis’ Legacy:

“Procession” is considered a fan favorite and often featured in Amorphis’ live performances. Its combination of heavy riffs, melodic interludes, and powerful vocals cemented its place as a classic within the band’s discography. The song helped to solidify Amorphis’ position as one of the leading progressive metal bands from Finland, showcasing their ability to blend brutality with beauty in a captivating way.

Whether you’re a seasoned metalhead or simply exploring the heavier side of music, “Procession” by Amorphis is an essential listen. It’s a song that will stay with you long after it ends, leaving you pondering its haunting melodies and powerful message.