I went to see a friend today and he kindly played snippets from all the new songs. I couldn't see the titles and only heard bits from the songs (such were the circumstances). Though one usually needs more than on listen to appreciate an Amorphis album, here are some first impressions.
I am delighted. The opening of the album with Shades of Grey is like a kick in the teeth and reminds me of the opening of Silent Waters
It sounds like, the album is quite varied - there is another very radio friendly song, which would probably be the second radio single (if there is going to be one) and there is some pretty heavy stuff as well. I couldn't hear any Nightwish, but heard quite bit of Hypocrisy instead
There are several songs with quite tangible folk elements - one sounds quite like Irish and the other has the irregular meter typical of the Bulgarian folk music.
I was most impressed by one that started off with a piano and a flute and then erupted into pure death metal. Very, very nice!
All in all I'd say it is a varied album and is clearly a move away from the previous four. It is your typical Amorphis, but with more teeth and indeed less delays.