Taiwanese metal band CHTHONIC and Finnish artist Mariska have released a new collaborative single titled “Näin Määrättiin.” The track marks a unique milestone, as it is the very first time Mariska has appeared on an extreme metal song. Together, the two artists deliver a powerful release that draws on the tragic human stories and shared historical struggles of both of their countries.

The lyrical themes of “Näin Määrättiin” were originally inspired by the final words written by Taiwanese political prisoners to their loved ones before their execution. While researching the song’s subject, CHTHONIC vocalist Freddy Lim discovered that stories of Finnish resistance during the Winter War were frequently reported in early Taiwanese newspapers. These stories provided encouragement to Taiwanese readers, many of whom later became political prisoners themselves. Deeply moved by the idea that people on opposite sides of the world could inspire one another through similar heartbreak and survival, Freddy Lim connected with Mariska to bring her poetic songwriting to the project.