Ever since their 2003 debut album, Spirit of the Forest, Korpiklaani have continuously made their way to absolute top of the humppa (Finnish polka) metal scene. 2009's Karkelo made an impact in the States on tours such as the Paganfest.
On Manala, they focus on the Finnish national epic Kalevala. Manala is the realm of the dead and these songs concern a shamanistic hero who travels there in search of knowledge. Manala has a very ancient and heavily folk-influenced feel and is completely sung in Finnish, save for one powerful song - exclusive to their North American fans.