After a three-year silence, Finnish industrial metal veterans Ruoska have broken their hiatus with a thunderous new single: “Ihtiriekko”, a foreboding glimpse into their upcoming sixth studio album Kade, set for release in February via Inverse Records.

Formed in 2002 and hailing from Juva, Eastern Finland, Ruoska has long been known for their intense sonic output, blending industrial aggression with theatrical flair. With nearly 25 million Spotify streams to date, their return marks a major moment for fans of Nordic metal.

“Ihtiriekko” draws its name and narrative from Finnish folklore, telling a tragic tale rooted in real-life suffering and mythological interpretation. The band explains: “In times past, people have sought to explain difficult things through mythology and fantasy in order to find comfort in the midst of often miserable everyday life.”

The track fuses heavy riffs, electronic textures, and classical elements, creating a layered and emotionally charged soundscape. From its demo stage, “Ihtiriekko” was destined to be completed—and now stands as one of the most significant pieces on the forthcoming album.

While the exact release date for Kade remains under wraps, anticipation is building. The album promises to expand on Ruoska’s signature style while delving deeper into themes of sorrow, folklore, and existential dread. An album release tour is also in the works, with dates to be announced soon.

With “Ihtiriekko”, Ruoska doesn’t just return—they resurrect the ghosts of the past and give them a voice in the present. Link