Skepticism is a pioneering force in the funeral doom metal genre, hailing from Finland and known for their profoundly somber soundscapes and haunting atmospheres. Formed in 1991 by Jani Kekarainen, Eero Pöyry, Lasse Pelkonen, and Matti Tilaeus, the band's distinctive style merges slow and heavy guitar riffs with ethereal keyboards and deep, growling vocals, creating a sonic experience that seems to stretch the boundaries of melancholy and despair. They have been credited with helping to define and establish the funeral doom subgenre with their seminal debut album 'Stormcrowfleet', released in 1995.

Over the years, Skepticism has maintained a consistent output of evocative and intensely emotional music, not succumbing to trends but instead forging a path defined by their unique artistic vision. Albums like 'Lead and Aether' (1998) and 'Farmakon' (2003) have solidified their status as icons within the doom metal community. Their dedication to authenticity in their performances is also notable, with live albums like 'Ordeal' (2015), which was recorded live in front of an audience in a studio setting, demonstrating their raw emotional power and the depth of their compositions. Their most recent release, 'Companion' (2021), continues to showcase Skepticism's commitment to evolving their sound while remaining true to the brooding, contemplative aesthetic that has earned them a devoted following worldwide.