Shining (Swallow the Sun album)

Shining is the sixth full-length studio album by Finnish melodic doom metal band Swallow the Sun. It was released on April 26, 2019, through Century Media Records. The album is a concept album centered around the themes of loss, grief, and depression, specifically focusing on the passing of vocalist Mikko Kotamäki's close friend and longtime girlfriend, Aleah Stanbridge, who also contributed vocals to previous Swallow the Sun albums.

The album is divided into two discs: "Shining I" and "Shining II." "Shining I" features a more traditional Swallow the Sun sound, incorporating heavier riffs and aggressive vocals alongside the band's signature melancholic melodies. "Shining II," in contrast, is a more atmospheric and largely acoustic work, reflecting the introspective and mournful nature of the album's concept. It includes guest appearances from several artists, contributing clean vocals and instrumentation that further enhance the emotional depth of the album.