Every now and again, the algorithm provides, and some weeks ago, it provided big time when it pointed me in the direction of ROYAL SORROW and their amazing debut album, “Innerdeeps.” Apparently, I jumped on board just in time to witness their musical journey from the beginning, as this amazing Finnish metal band was formed sometime last year by some childhood friends, from the ashes of their former band, EDGE OF HAZE. Their first studio effort as ROYAL SORROW, “Innerdeeps,” was released on September 26th, 2025, via InsideOut Music.
Is it just me, or are debut albums getting better and better these days? Because at first listen I thought ROYAL SORROW was two or three records deep into their career (which is partly true considering they have released some good albums as EDGE OF HAZE), that’s how well-crafted and technically impressive I initially perceived “Innerdeeps” to be. And the kicker is that it holds up even after multiple listens, as I am still fascinated by their modern sound, polished production, tight instrumental parts, and stand-out vocals. On top of all that, I really enjoy how dynamic the songs are, how well they managed to integrate the electronic elements in the sound design of the album, and how catchy those melodies really are, which in turn make for a very entertaining and energetic album.
In anticipation of the album, the band put out quite a lot of singles, and with good reason, as many (if not all) of the songs on “Innerdeeps” could have worked as singles. They started in 2024 with “Metrograve,” a dynamic and energetic number that neatly encapsulates much of ROYAL SORROW’s sonic DNA, from their progressive leanings, modern tendencies, and knack for great melodic lines all the way to their honed technicality and musicianship, which shine in the way the song flows through mellow passages and harsher musical landscapes. And from there on, the hits kept on pouring as the next release was the melodic anthem “Evergreen,” which blends sharp riffs and lush synth with infectious melodies and groovy guitars into one excellent modern progressive metal track. This one was followed by the harsh-sounding “Give in,” a dark tale about anxiety where vocalist (and guitarist) Markus Hentunen showcases his versatility with melodic cleans and some harsher vocals that work well with the deep bass tones and claustrophobic atmosphere.
As if all this wasn’t enough to impress the listeners, they decided to release two more streamlined singles in the form of “Samsara” and “Release Your Shadow,” which also happen to be some of my favourites on this album. Where “Samsara” is a more cinematic and epic song with a philosophical approach to its lyrical theme that rides high on a big melodic hook, sturdy riffs, thumping bass lines, and an uplifting chorus, “Release Your Shadow” is a more vocally-driven affair backed by a thundering rhythm section and textured synths that carry a simple but effective main melody and a soaring chorus that is going to be a sing-along delight in a live setting. Then came the magnificent “Bloodflower,” a complex and dynamic track that has such a smooth flow through its many moods and sonic landscapes, presenting the band at their most versatile and progressive. Again, I am really dazzled by Markus Hentunen’s vocals, especially his softer, more delicate vocals halfway through the song that contrast with his screams toward to end. And what is there more to say about the bass line, guitar melody, and solo? They are absolutely superb!
The latest single they released from this album, “Survival Complex,” also happens to be one of the heaviest tracks they wrote so far, mixing some digitized vocals with electronic elements and hefty guitars, while the chorus boasts some screams. It’s quite a distorted and gripping number that perfectly emphasizes its lyrical theme – an existential crisis in this day and age. This is one of those tracks that will get the crowds moshing in no time. Elsewhere on the album, the soft and heartfelt “Looking Glass” is another one of my personal favorites, not just because it was my introduction to the band but also because of how gorgeous it is in its minimalistic instrumentation that lets the vocals shine. The title track closes the album on an energetic note, being an uplifting number in both music and lyrics that brings together all the best aspects of this album, flowing through various musical landscapes that prove the progressive label put to their sound actually holds true. It may not be the most complex or layered piece I have ever heard, but the way it moves and escalates makes it a good example of what a modern progressive track can offer to the listeners.
In conclusion, “Innerdeeps” sounds a lot better than a debut album has any right to sound because the band really took the time to hone their craft and make sure they impress with this release, which they did. As a result, this album is mature, complex, and utterly irresistible in the way the music flows together but also in how individual and memorable each of the ten songs are. Moreover, if there is one thing that I appreciate on an album (apart from the vocals and instrumentals, that is) is its lyrical depth, and there is so much to unpack from “Innerdeeps” as it explores themes of emotional resilience, identity, or introspection. So, depending on your mood, you can either rock out to the music or ruminate on the lyrics… or do both!
Written by Andrea Crow
Tracklist
1. Let Go
2. Metrograve
3. Samsara
4. Release Your Shadow
5. Evergreen
6. Survival Complex
7. Bloodflower
8. Looking Glass
9. Give In
10. Innerdeeps
Lineup
- Markus Hentunen – Vocals, Guitars
- Eero Maijala – Bass
- Janne Mieskonen – Drums
Label
InsideOut Music
