Arion is celebrated for its powerful melodies, intricate compositions, and dynamic live performances. Formed in Helsinki in 2011, Arion has established a significant presence in Finland and internationally. Their music blends symphonic and power metal with modern influences, creating an intense and emotionally resonant, truly personal sound.

Formation and breakthrough (2011–2014)
Arion was founded in 2011 by guitarist Iivo Kaipainen, drummer Topias Kupiainen, keyboardist Arttu Vauhkonen and bassist Georgi Velinov. In 2013, they participated in Finland’s Eurovision Song Contest selection, Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK), with the song Lost which marked a breakthrough moment, bringing them both national and international attention. The same year, Arion released their debut EP, New Dawn, securing their place as an emerging force in melodic metal.

Debut album Last of Us and rising popularity (2014–2016)
In 2014, Arion released their first full-length album, Last of Us, which received praise for its memorable melodies and intricate compositions. Tracks like I Am the Storm and Out of the Ashes showcased Arion’s skill at blending crunchy riffs with epic symphonic elements. Last of Us expanded their fan base beyond Finland, bringing them international recognition and positioning them as rising stars in symphonic metal.

Line-up change and new artistic direction (2016–2018)
In 2016, Lassi Vääränen joined as lead vocalist, replacing original singer Viljami Holopainen. Vääränen’s powerful, versatile voice added depth to Arion’s music and refreshed the band’s energy. With this new lineup, Arion began working on their next album, evolving their style with more ambitious compositions while refining their sound and identity.

2nd album Life Is Not Beautiful and international foothold (2018–2020)
A new international deal with AFM Records was signed, and Arion’s second studio album, Life Is Not Beautiful, was released in 2018. It showcased a heavier, more diverse sound. The album featured the popular single At the Break of Dawn, a collaboration with Elize Ryd of Amaranthe, which quickly became a fan favorite, receiving significant radio play, 20 million streams, and media coverage. The album’s success solidified Arion’s standing in the melodic metal scene, opening doors to international tours and live performances, including a huge tour with fellow Finnish melodic metal masters Battle Beast.

3rd album Vultures Die Alone and pandemic-era success (2021–2023)
In 2021, Arion released their third album, Vultures Die Alone, which integrated symphonic, progressive, and pop-metal elements. Key singles from the album included Bloodline featuring Noora Louhimo of Battle Beast, and In the Name of Love with Cyan Kicks, showcasing the band’s musical versatility. Despite the pandemic limiting touring opportunities, Vultures Die Alone became a highlight of the Finnish metal scene in 2021, reaching audiences worldwide through digital platforms.

Once the pandemic subsided, Arion joined Gloryhammer for their “Fly Away UK and Ireland Tour 2022,” performing at multiple venues across the UK and Ireland. Consequently, supporting Dream Theater on the “Top Of The World European Tour 2023” brought Arion to major European cities. They also participated in the “Tour of the Dark Realm 2023” with Bloodbound, Northtale, and Tungsten covering several European countries. Through hard work, Arion has succeeded in building an international fanbase dedicated to their intense, captivating take on melodic metal.

Upcoming Album (2025)
Arion’s fourth studio album, yet to be announced, is set for release in early 2025. Marking a new level of artistic maturity, the album is energetic and in-your-face while retaining the band’s signature crisp production and several of their most compelling melodies. Arion’s songwriting has reached new heights, with catchy hooks and intricate melodies that capture listeners from the first note. Guitarist Iivo Kaipainen stands out as a true virtuoso; while technical skill is commonplace, Kaipainen’s playing has a storytelling quality, and his solos are as expressive as they are masterful. His elite riffs and compelling solos add depth and intensity to the songs. They’re perfectly wingmanned by keyboard wizard Arttu Vauhkonen’s solos that blend technical precision with emotional depth, seamlessly integrating classical influences with modern metal. With his fast-paced, virtuosic runs Vauhkonen adds to the band’s energy and enhances the overall impact of each track, elevating the band’s melodic and emotional storytelling.

The album features the well-aired single Wings of Twilight with Melissa Bonny of Ad Infinitum, blending seamlessly into Arion’s evolving style.

Written by guitarist Iivo Kaipainen and produced and mixed by Matias Kupiainen (Stratovarius), the new upcoming record is the album that will finally cement Arion’s place among symphonic metal’s elite.