While much of "Am Universum" is in fact a continuation of "Tuonela," which was a continuation of "Elegy" and more specifically the progressive nature of the "My Kantele" EP, it falls short not of expectation but of the "groundbreaking" acclaim that's been synonymous with their ongoing development. While membership changes have been as constant as their forward-looking musical statements, "Am Universum" is not in fact their strongest release, nor will it set a new musical standard for their many contemporaries to bask in. And that's not to undercut the bands talent and knack for writing enlightening music, it has more to do with them reaching their apparent peak with "Tuonela." That album was a perfect balance of strength and harmony with enough emotive and traditional characteristics to rank as the true class of an ever-broadening genre of music they stood at the forefront of for so long.

"Am Universum" sounds too contrived, even for all its memorable moments and depth of song writing -- "Alone," "Goddess (of the Sad Man)," "Shatters Within," "Grieve Stricken Heart" -- there's a very hollow sound that emanates from within. The songwriting growth is still apparent but some of the material comes off as frail and subtle. Too often the musical dynamics are missing sometimes leaving an empty afterthought where an impressive scale run or extra choral boost might've worked better.

To be sure, this is not a Pop record nor does it borrow from any of the fixed trends from recent years, instead staying the course that's been wholly their own which is admirable in itself. But for all the dignity and grace with which they compose, the unpredictability and ambition seems to have gotten lost amongst dreary chorus lines and sluggish structural developments.

A top notch Rock record for most anyone else; for Amorphis, considering where they've been, where they've headed and the heights they've climbed, it's a decent record. expectations have been met.