Sentenced Members, Gear & Sound
Finnish death/gothic metal band
Members
Select a Sentenced band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Sentenced was a pioneering Finnish metal band known for their dynamic evolution across several metal subgenres, including death metal, gothic metal, and melodic death metal. Originating from Oulu, Finland, the group was formed in 1989 and included key members such as Miika Tenkula (guitar), Sami Lopakka (guitar), Vesa Ranta (drums), and Ville Laihiala (vocals). Over the years, their sound shifted from raw death metal to more polished and melodic gothic metal, encapsulated in albums like Amok and The Cold White Light. Sentenced left an indelible mark on the Finnish metal scene before disbanding in 2005.
How to Sound Like Sentenced
To capture the sound of Sentenced, one must delve into the melancholic and melodic interplay of their guitars, characterized by a blend of aggressive riffing and mournful melodies. The overall sonic character is both expansive and emotive, with a strong emphasis on atmosphere. Miika Tenkula’s guitar work often featured rich, saturated tones, achieved through the use of Peavey 5150 and Laney GH100L amplifiers, paired with guitars like the Gibson Les Paul Studio. Ville Laihiala’s vocals, supported by the Shure SM58, added a raw yet melodic edge that complemented the band's profound lyrical themes. The use of Boss MT-2 Metal Zone provided the distortion needed for their heavier tracks, while maintaining clarity for their more melodic passages. The combination of these elements resulted in a sound that was both haunting and powerful, resonating with fans across the globe.
Discography
Get the Sentenced Sound
Want to sound like Sentenced? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.