It’s been almost three months since Finland’s Shade Of Sorrow released the debut album, Upon the Fields of Sorrow, at the end of June. Fans of morose, somber, melodic death metal enjoyed the work and cathartic suffering band leader, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mika Kankainen composed. But Mika, never satisfied in his emotional journey, created another sampling of the record in the shape of the Gravedigger video… To further promote his cause and bend the ear of potential new fans. Also, to further give vision to his project.
“Gravedigger is definitely one of the top tracks on this album,” confirms Mika. “It’s a very versatile song, with crushing heaviness and catchy melodies along with a very cool chorus that will bring eargasm for the listener. The lyric video is designed to follow the mood and atmosphere of the song… Indeed, delivering eerie and dark feelings that this track has to offer.”
About the band:
Shade Of Sorrow is the expression of Mika Kankainen, the former drummer of Soul Terror and Warceremony. He wrote the new material and played all the instruments himself, while also handling vocals. Thus, he showcased his immense talent and virtuosity. The songs started to catch the attention of other musicians and producers who in 2020 encouraged Mika to deliver on his potential. So, he began to record this material to share with the world. A year later digital singles and accompanying music videos started to premiere catching the attention of M-Theory Audio, who signed Shade Of Sorrow in 2023.
About the debut album:
Working on Upon the Fields of Grief with Mika was Esa Uusimaa (Crowen, Rain of Acid),who also mixed, and Saku Moilanen (Before the Dawn, Aeonian Sorrow, Red Moon Architect)withvocal production by Juha Kylmanen (To/Die/For, For My Pain…). Juho Raiha (Before the Dawn, Swallow the Sun) handled the mastering. Mika did enlist a few friends to guest on the album, including members of Wolfheart and Rotting Christ to lay down a few solos and intros. The final touch was to package the album with striking cover art by Gogo Melone.
“Upon The Fields Of Grief is a massive album with a wide variety of layers, emotions, feelings and different atmospheres,” explains Mika. “I will take you to the journey of your life, where basically all human emotions come alive and basic instincts attack like a fierce wolf of the north. Enjoy listening!”
