Meänmaa, which translates to Our Land, is a region stretching across the border between Finland and Sweden, also known as the Torne Valley. This area is steeped in folklore, has its own language, and in recent years has even adopted its own flag. It is in this valley that Ari XIII resides, who since 2020 has released a small but compelling body of work under the name The True Rietas. Ari XIII is not only the sole member of Rietas, but is also involved in other projects such as Coraxul and Curse Upon a Prayer, and can be seen performing live with Iku-Tursa.
The name Rietas, which means “Devil” in the Finno-Ugric dialect Meänkieli, should not be confused with the Folk Metal band from Rovaniemi that shares the same name. Hence the addition of The True to clearly distinguish the two. While the music of Rietas is undeniably fierce and uncompromising Black Metal, unmistakable folk influences are woven into the sound, something that becomes especially apparent on the new album.
After a demo, a single, and a split release with Riivaus, The True Rietas now finally presents its full-length debut album — and what an album it is. As someone who has been a devoted fan of Finnish Black Metal since the early 1990s, even more so than its Norwegian counterpart, I can confidently say that this debut hits hard.
The music is driven by wonderfully dissonant guitar work that sounds like a rusty chainsaw wedged in a tree for the past twenty years: raw, abrasive, yet strangely hypnotic. This guitar tone forms the backbone of a production that is spot-on — harsh where it needs to be, but clear enough to allow every detail to shine through. The overall sound of this Torne Valley Black Metal is a true pleasure to the ears.
What truly elevates this record is the remarkable variation within the compositions. Not a single track feels redundant or one-dimensional.
The use of multiple vocal styles further enhances the dynamics, giving each song its own distinct identity and atmosphere. As a result, every track feels like a small, self-contained journey, while the album as a whole remains cohesive. This is a debut that not only commands respect, but also invites repeated listens and deeper exploration.
With excursions into other genres — such as a subtle waltz passage during Pirun walssi — Ari XIII ensures that the listener remains fully engaged at all times. These unexpected yet perfectly placed elements add extra depth to the album and demonstrate a willingness to think beyond the strict confines of the genre, without ever losing the essence of Black Metal.
The drumming also deserves special mention. Guest drummer Anzillu, known from Iku-Tursa and Order of Nosferat, delivers an impressive performance throughout the album. His playing is powerful, dynamic, and perfectly attuned to the atmosphere, offering enough variation to add tension and momentum to the compositions. The drums never feel routine, but instead actively contribute to the album’s narrative and adventurous nature.
An absolute recommendation — Black Metal from the Torne Valley at its finest.
90/100
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