Shape of Despair is a Finnish funeral doom metal band known for its atmospheric and melancholic soundscapes that captivate listeners within a world of somber tranquility. Formed in 1995 originally under the name Raven, the band underwent a transformation in both style and name, emerging as Shape of Despair in 1998. Their music is characterized by slow tempos, ethereal keyboard melodies, growled vocals juxtaposed with haunting clean singing, and a heavy emphasis on creating a dense, mournful atmosphere. The lyrical themes often explore the realms of despair, sorrow, and the darker aspects of the human experience.

Throughout their career, Shape of Despair has carved out a unique niche in the doom metal genre with their meticulously crafted and emotionally resonant albums. Their discography is a testament to the band's evolution and commitment to their sound, with releases such as "Shades Of..." (2000) and "Angels of Distress" (2001) laying the groundwork for their signature style. In 2015, the band released "Monotony Fields," an album that was met with critical acclaim for its profound depth and beauty, further solidifying their status as masters of the genre. The years following have seen continued exploration and maturation in their sound, with releases like "Alone in the Mist," which presents previously unreleased material that provides insight into their early days. Their creativity shows no signs of waning, with their more recent works like "Return to the Void" and "Dissolution" that capture the essence of their despair-laden journey, continuing to mesmerize fans and newcomers alike with their expansive and gripping doom metal dirges.