Amorphis - The Karelian Isthmus  / Privilege of Evil EP CD (Jewel Case, 2003, Relapse) 

A cornerstone of early 1990s extreme metal, this essential CD combines The Karelian Isthmus, the debut studio album from Finnish metal pioneers Amorphis, with their formative Privilege of Evil EP. Originally released between 1992 and 1993, these recordings capture the band at the dawn of their career, firmly rooted in death metal while already hinting at the doom-laden atmosphere and progressive sensibilities that would later define their signature sound.

The Karelian Isthmus draws inspiration from Nordic history and mythology, reflecting the bleak, ancient landscapes referenced by its title. Musically, the album delivers crushing riffs, growled vocals, and dark melodic passages, positioning Amorphis alongside the leading Scandinavian death metal acts of the era while setting them apart through their unique thematic depth. The Privilege of Evil EP further showcases the band’s raw early power, making this release an invaluable document of Amorphis’ evolution.

Issued by Relapse Records in 2003, this CD comes housed in a standard jewel case and is a must-have for fans of early death metal, doom metal, and Finnish extreme metal history. An essential addition for collectors and a definitive starting point for anyone exploring the origins of one of metal’s most respected and enduring bands.

Recommended if you like: Paradist Lost, Katatonia, Insomnium, Opeth, Tiamat, Dark Tranquillity, Edge of Sanity, Anathema, Therion, Borknagar

Artist: Amorphis
Title: The Karelian Isthmus  / Privilege of Evil EP 
Label: Relapse Records
Catalogue Number RR65532 
UPC: 781676655328
Release Year: 1992/2003
Duration: Album
Format: CD
Packaging Type: Jewel Case 
Condition: New & Factory Sealed

Tracklist:
1. Karelia
2. The Gathering
3. Grail's Mysteries
4. Warriors Trial
5. Black Embrace
6. The Exile of the Sons of Uisliu
7. The Lost Name of God
8. The Pilgrimage
9. Misery Path
10. The Sign from the North Side
11. Vulgar Necrolatry
12. Pilgrimage from Darkness (From the Privilege of Evil EP)
13. Black Embrace (From the Privilege of Evil EP)
14. Privilege of Evil (From the Privilege of Evil EP)
15. Misery Path (From the Privilege of Evil)
16. Vulgar Necrolatry (From the Privilege of Evil EP)
17. Excursing From Existence (From the Privilege of Evil EP)