By Publisher 
Formation and Early Years (2011-2013)
Arion was conceived in the autumn of 2011 by a group of talented young musicians from Helsinki. The founding members included guitarist and primary songwriter Iivo Kaipainen, drummer Topias Kupiainen, keyboardist Arttu Vauhkonen, and bassist Georgi “Gege” Velinov. The lineup was solidified in May 2012 with the addition of vocalist Viljami Holopainen.
The band’s initial breakthrough came in 2013 when they participated in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK), Finland’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest. Their debut song, “Lost,” not only showcased their musical prowess but also earned them a commendable fifth place in the competition. This exposure was instrumental in introducing Arion to a broader audience and establishing their presence in the Finnish metal scene.
Debut Album: “Last of Us” (2014)
Building on the momentum from UMK, Arion released their debut album, “Last of Us,” on August 22, 2014. The album was well-received, peaking at number 13 on the Finnish charts. It featured a blend of symphonic elements and power metal riffs, highlighting the band’s versatility and musical depth. Tracks like “Shadows” and the titular “Last of Us” resonated with fans, further cementing Arion’s reputation as a formidable force in the metal community.
Lineup Changes and Continued Success (2015-2018)
In 2015, vocalist Viljami Holopainen departed from the band, leading to the introduction of Lassi Vääränen as the new frontman. This change marked a new chapter for Arion, as they continued to evolve their sound and expand their fanbase.
Their sophomore album, “Life Is Not Beautiful,” was released on October 19, 2018. While it didn’t chart as high as their debut, the album showcased the band’s growth and maturity. Notably, it included the track “At the Break of Dawn,” a powerful duet featuring Elize Ryd of Amaranthe. This collaboration garnered significant attention and acclaim, further elevating Arion’s profile in the international metal scene.
“Vultures Die Alone” and Recent Endeavors (2021-Present)
Arion’s third studio album, “Vultures Die Alone,” was released on April 9, 2021, under AFM Records. The album reached number 17 on the Finnish charts, reflecting the band’s sustained popularity. It featured collaborations with notable artists, including Noora Louhimo of Battle Beast on the track “Bloodline.” The album’s diverse compositions and emotive lyrics resonated with fans and critics alike, solidifying Arion’s standing in the metal community.
In 2024, Arion released the single “Wildfire,” a testament to their relentless creativity and commitment to delivering fresh content to their audience. This track was produced by Matias Kupiainen of Stratovarius, further highlighting the band’s connections within the Finnish metal scene.
Upcoming Projects and Future Directions
As of early 2025, Arion is gearing up for the release of their fourth studio album, “The Light That Burns The Sky,” scheduled for February 28, 2025. The band has already unveiled several singles from the album, including “Wings of Twilight” featuring Melissa Bonny, “Wildfire,” and “Like The Phoenix I Will Rise.” These releases have been met with enthusiasm from fans, building anticipation for the full album.
In support of the upcoming album, Arion has announced a series of tours. Notably, they will be joining forces with Stratovarius and Sonata Arctica for the “Nordic Power Metal Titans 2025” tour, covering various cities in Finland throughout February and March. Additionally, they have planned the “The Plague That Burns The Sky Tour 2025” with Brainstorm, which will take them across Germany and Switzerland.
Musical Style and Influences
Arion’s music is characterized by a harmonious blend of symphonic and power metal elements. Their compositions often feature intricate guitar riffs, atmospheric keyboard arrangements, and powerful vocals, creating a sound that is both melodic and heavy. The band’s lyrical themes explore a range of topics, from personal introspection to fantastical narratives, adding depth to their musical offerings.
Their collaborations with artists like Elize Ryd and Noora Louhimo have introduced additional dimensions to their music, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment within the metal genre.
Impact and Legacy
Since their inception, Arion has made significant strides in the metal world. Their participation in UMK 2013 served as a springboard, leading to opportunities to tour with renowned bands such as Dream Theater, Gloryhammer, Battle Beast, and Sonata Arctica. Their discography reflects a band that is continually evolving, pushing the boundaries of their sound while staying true to their melodic metal roots.
As they approach the release of their fourth studio album, Arion’s trajectory suggests a promising future. Their dedication to their craft and their ability to connect