Tunoi’s debut album actually reminds me a lot Soilwork. Gruff shouts accompany clean vocals, while the music is a distortion-tinged metal that is jumpy due – in part – to the keyboards. “Elavat & Kuolleet” didn’t bowl me over, because it’s essentially mediocre. However, it does hint at promising things to come.

The first track is a fitting introduction; it’s called “Ainoastaan,” and you shouldn’t attempt to pronounce it unless you have some background in the Finnish language. “Pois Minusta” is like its brother insomuch that the tempo is basically the same, and the edge-infused, vocal performance is still intact. “Ruusut Helvetin” has a very nice beginning, but is ultimately spoiled by the laughable, clean vocalizations that appear shortly afterwards. Also, the aforementioned song is perhaps the most radio-friendly with its catchy chorus yet rough verses. “Pirunpelto” has the best riffs of the lot, even though Tuoni’s instrumentation isn’t remarkably original. Still, there’s some quality riffage to be lapped up. Next up is “Muisto Pahasta,” which is more melodic than its darker counterparts. Overall, I think my favorite attribute of “Elavat & Kuolleet” is the attractive, guitar riffs.

[This review was first published on the now defunct scandinavianmetal.info webzine]