The legendary Finnish melodic death metal act Whispered makes a long-awaited return with their epic new single Ikikaere! Fast, fierce, and rich with sweeping orchestrations and the Japanese folk influences the band is known for, the track marks a powerful comeback.
Earlier this year, Whispered also joined forces with Ranka Kustannus for the release of their fourth album, set to arrive this fall. Ikikaere, released today, is the band’s first new material since their 2016 album Metsutan. It’s also been ten years since Whispered and Ranka last crossed paths.
”Ranka was interested in Whispered back in 2016 when the band released their previous album. At that time, things didn’t move anywhere, but when the band contacted us about a new album, it didn’t take long to make the decision. It’s a great honor to be able to release the next album from this unique and ambitious band.” says Riku Pääkkönen.
This time around, the collaboration came together effortlessly, driven by a shared enthusiasm from the start.
”Things have felt right with Ranka from the very first meeting. Despite such a long creative break, they immediately believed in what we’re doing and gave us the opportunity to take on and complete our most ambitious and biggest project to date, Whispered’s fourth album.” the band comments and adds about the single:
”Ikikaere is the first single from the upcoming record, and it only reveals a fraction of what’s to come. Our fastest track so far delivers an intense sense of rebirth, just as the name suggests, along with a massive atmosphere.”
Ikikaere truly marks a triumphant return and showcases the band’s signature cross-cultural take on death metal 🤘
”Orders to all warriors: stream the new track relentlessly and march to the shows in full force to witness the return of the shogunate. Ikikaere!”
Stream the track here!
Music & lyrics by Jouni Valjakka
Recording & production Jouni Valjakka & Mikko Mattila
Mix & master by Mikko Mattila
With the new release, Whispered will also return to the live stage. The band will perform throughout the year both in Finland and internationally. The run begins on May 9 at On The Rocks in Helsinki, followed by a European tour in late May and a series of summer festival appearances.
UPCOMING SHOWS
09.05.2026 On The Rocks, Helsinki
European tour:
23.05.2026 Stellwerk, Hamburg
24.05.2026 Stengade, Copenhagen
25.05.2026 Helvete, Oberhausen
26.05.2026 Musigburg, Aarburg
28.05.2026 Club DVG, Kortrijk
29.05.2026 Hellraiser, Leipzig
30.05.2026 Subzero, Prague
31.05.2026 Club Gwarek, Krakow
Summer festivals:
10.07.2026 Dark River Festival, Kotka
15.08.2026 Saarihelvetti, Tampere
BOOKING
Finland: Nem Agency / Rowan Rafferty
rowan@nem.fi
Europe: Dark Moon Events / Jani Mikkänen
darkmoon-events@outlook.com
LINEUP
Jouni Valjakka – Vocals, Guitar
Mikko Mattila – Guitar
Olli Paajanen – Bass
Filip Gäddnäs – Drums
The band photo by Rudolf Westerholm & Jouni Valjakka
