Amorphis "The Karelian Isthmus"

The Karelian Isthmus is the title of the third release\first full-length studio LP album of Finnish metal band Amorphis, released in 1992.

Although The Karelian Isthmus took its name from a historic Finnish battleground, Karelian Isthmus, its lyrics focus on Amorphis's well known epic themes from the history of Finnish warfare and religion, but drawing more from celtic mythology rather than the later traditions of Amorphis's own native land. The epic side is sometimes broken up by the occult lyrical themes in tracks including "Pilgrimage", "Misery Path" and "Black Embrace". In recent years, songs from this album have been receiving more play during Amorphis' live performances, despite being of a different style than their later works.

This release was the last recorded release to have the original lineup of the band as later on the band would have either additional members or original members quitting. Privilege of Evil was the last release with the original lineup, but it was recorded before this album. Both releases were combined in a 2003 reissue.

Track list:

1. Karelia 00:45   
2. The Gathering 04:15  
3. Grail's Mysteries 03:04  
4. Warriors Trial 05:07  
5. Black Embrace 03:43   
6. Exile of the Sons of Uisliu 03:46   
7. The Lost Name of God 05:34   
8. The Pilgrimage 04:42   
9. Misery Path 04:19   
10. Sign from the North Side 04:57  
11. Vulgar Necrolatry (Abhorrence cover) 04:22  

Total time: 44:34

Recorded and mixed at Sunlight Studios in May 1992.

Produced by Tomas Skogsberg and Amorphis.