Amorphis shows play like a Finnish literary tutorial, with the group borrowing liberally from the country’s national epic the Kalevala. It’s prime progressive-metal fodder, depicting heroic feats (a character must bridle the Demon’s horse and shoot the swan of the underworld) and hideous villains (a hag who steals the sun and moon from the sky). Historians credit the Kalevala with partially catalyzing the national awakening that led to Finland declaring independence from Russia. Metal historians know it as the primary source for Amorphis’ concept album Tales from the Thousand Lakes, as well as numerous subsequent songs. Translators won’t be necessary, at least for those who can decipher the occasional death-metal grunt, because Amorphis sings in English. The group retains two guitarists from its original 1990 lineup, but it has changed its sound significantly, adding sitar, flute, saxophone, and forest-folk acoustic melodies to its heavy-riff foundation. The exotic instrumentation only enhances the fantastical nature of Amorphis’ ancient tales, and Tomi Joutsen (singer since 2004) boasts a deep, rich voice perfect for poetry reading.

Fri., Oct. 10, 7 p.m., 2008