Denver’s Ukko’s Hammer Redefines Metal with Unique Crossover Sound

Denver’s metal scene welcomes a fresh sound with the rise of Ukko’s Hammer, a band that merges Finnish folklore, J.R.R. Tolkien-inspired themes, and Teutonic thrash metal. The five-member group is set to perform at Ante Up on February 15, 2024, showcasing their distinctive approach to crossover music.

Originally conceived as a solo project by vocalist Zach Reini in 2020, Ukko’s Hammer has evolved into a full-fledged band featuring guitarists Andy “Ando” Rauworth and S.Mares “Chon”, bassist Zach Barnes, and drummer Preston Weippert. The band has also enlisted Eddie Eaton, a seasoned drummer from local hardcore and powerviolence groups, for live performances.

Reini explains the band’s unique vision, stating, “What if Godflesh was a hardcore band?” This question laid the foundation for their sound, which combines elements not typically found in traditional crossover bands. “Usually, it’s hardcore and metal put together, but we’re mixing in a bunch of other different stuff,” he adds. This eclectic mix stems from Reini’s desire to explore beyond conventional genres, blending thrash and crossover influences with an array of unexpected elements.

The inspiration behind the band’s name, Ukko’s Hammer, draws from Finnish mythology, referencing the god of thunder and fertility. Reini emphasizes the importance of his heritage, noting, “I use that as a way to tap into that part of my family history.” He aims to reclaim these narratives, which have often been appropriated in ways he finds troubling, stating, “That’s not what my background is. Finnish as a language is completely separate from old Norse.”

Their self-titled debut album, released in March 2023, features tracks such as “Hiisi Tanssi” and “Ukonvasara,” which delve into themes of social justice and labor movements. “It’s using the myths, but it’s not in a nationalistic sort of way,” Reini explains. “I’m talking about destroying Ukko’s hammer and distributing the shards to everyone in the world so they have a bit more power.”

The closing track, “Ukonvasara,” serves as a metaphorical call for equality and collective empowerment. “All the folklore and mythology, they’re just stories, so you can do whatever you want with them,” Reini asserts. He aims to recontextualize these tales to address contemporary issues, making the music resonate on multiple levels.

Musically, Ukko’s Hammer pays homage to the gritty sounds of 1980s speed metal, incorporating references to influential bands like Kreator and Nuclear Assault. Reini acknowledges the practice of borrowing riffs, stating, “I firmly believe in the power of the stolen riff.” He expresses joy when others recognize these influences, demonstrating a sense of camaraderie within the metal community.

With the dual guitar work of Rauworth and Chon, the band is venturing into new territory, with their latest unreleased material featuring complex solos that challenge traditional metal norms. Reini describes these as “schizo solos,” embracing a chaotic yet creative approach that reflects the band’s melting pot of influences.

Fans can expect an energetic performance from Ukko’s Hammer alongside local openers Direct Threat and Chain Law on February 15. The show promises to deliver a unique blend of music that pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo in the metal genre. As Reini puts it, “It’s a big melting pot.”