UNEN – Forever Winter (2025) *HQ*
”Forever Winter” is the title of the upcoming album from UNÉN, from Finland, to be released by Frontiers Music. Unén plays modern melodic metal also incorporating elements ranging from progressive to pop-rock, blending intensity with sensitivity in its sound.
Unén was originally founded in late 2021, laying the foundation for the band’s musical style. In 2022, Unén focused on composing and refining production independently, resulting in the release of two self-published tracks. However, after a rollercoaster year, there was a need to change the lineup to accelerate production.
The word “Unén” was derived from the band’s original idea that lyrics would be based on the world of dreams. However, due to lineup changes, this concept evolved, although the name remained. In May 2023, Unén released their first single Made of Stone (cover) with new lead singer Stina Girs, who rose to national attention after placing 5th in the Finnish TV show Idols in 2010. She later signed a solo contract with Sony Finland, releasing two Finnish-language albums.
The current lineup of Unén showcases their unique identity and creative direction. The band focuses solely on original compositions, with each member contributing equally to the creative process. Bound together by their passion for music—despite having completely different day jobs—Unén stands out for its collaborative spirit and emotionally rich sound.
There are several beautifully assembled pieces of music making sprinkled throughout. The focus on detail, crisp production and immaculate delivery of the serious minded stuff is impressive.
‘Prelude For The Wicked’ is a dramatic, spoken word opener. The lyric “the air is heavy with the weight of battles fought” stands out, already transporting us to a world of music that’s cinematic in concept as well as sound. ‘My Love is Broken’ and ‘In My Bones’ show a spine tingling command of darkly operatic orchestral colours, easing their way into mainstream Symphonic Rock.
And ‘Black Heart’ whips up the kind of tuneful musical storm we expect from Coldplay, punctuated by piano and strings, ascending to a sweetly sung chorus. The broader melodrama of the balladic title track is well produced, exquisitely arranged, but lacks bite. Girs delivers a heartfelt vocal performance though.
‘Sky’ is the album’s highpoint. Powerful images and soaring symphonics are deployed with absolute precision. Ensemble playing at its best.
01 – Prelude For The Wicked
02 – My Love’s Broken
03 – In My Bones
04 – Black Heart
05 – Forever Winter
06 – Sky
07 – Game Over
08 – Ice Queen
09 – Spoil Me
10 – Rose
11 – Disappear
12 – I Will Always Find You
Stina Girs (vocals)
Kimmo Pitkänen (guitars)
Harri Moilanen (guitars)
Petteri Sinervä (keyboards)
Tomi Kallava (bass)
Timo Larjo (drums)
Pre order:
amazon.co.uk/Forever-Winter-Unen/dp/B0FF2K42GC
