Jylhä

Jylhä (Finnish for 'majestic' or 'rugged') marks a turning point in Korpiklaani's discography, released in 2021. While the band built their reputation on upbeat drinking songs, this album leans heavily into darker Finnish folklore and murder ballads, such as the track 'Leväluhta' which references a famous spring containing human remains. The addition of drummer Samuli Mikkonen brought a more complex, aggressive rhythmic foundation to the band, pushing them toward thrash and power metal territories while maintaining their signature folk instrumentation. Critics, including those at AllMusic, noted the album's improved production and the band's ability to balance their traditional 'humppa' dance rhythms with a more serious, atmospheric tone. It is widely considered one of their most technically proficient and emotionally resonant releases, successfully bridging the gap between party-folk and serious heavy metal.