APRIL 6, 2006

Blanco Niño

Blanco Niño is a new Turku-based group. It has some same guys as Goodnight Monsters and Jennifer Ever. So if you like them, you better check out Blanco Niño as well. Actually you better check them out anyway, because they've recorded five really good songs . They name the usual suspects as their influences (BMX Bandits, Elbow, Eels, Teenage Fanclub, Belle and Sebastian, the Flaming Lips). So the boys sure have a great taste in music. You can listen their own songs either at myspace or at mikseri.net

Blanco Niño at mikseri
Blanco Niño at myspace

Esa Linna

Esa Linna used to play in Time Flies and 86 Yourself some years ago. He has not quitted making music and nowadays he makes power pop by himself as a singer-songwriter. He desribes his music as a blend of power pop, retro, progressive rock and electronic elements. You can found four songs from myspace and lots more from his website.

Esa Linna Website
Esa Linna at myspace



APRIL 5, 2006

Lemonator's new album At the Presence of Great Beauty will be released by spinefarm on 26th of april. The first single Will I Ever Find Out is available for download in iTunes and NetAnttila and you can also listen the song at their myspace.

Lemonator Website
Lemonator at myspace



MARCH 31, 2006

The Phonies

Gran Tourettes, the second album of The Phonies is now out and available (or will be very soon, they mention on the website that there has been a small delay). I received a promo copy of it today and it totally blew my mind away. It's bloody magnificent and will (at least) be very near of that five hearts rating here at onechord when I have the time to review it. After these first 5 listenings to give anything less would feel like a crime. Well I guess it's still too early to make final conclusions, but it's safe to say that so far no other 2006 release have made such a great first impression eventhough I really love TV-Resistori's and Samae's album for example. This album almost seems like too good to be true. So gorgeous..

The Phonies Website
The Phonies at myspace (two songs from the album there, both are just wonderful and they aren't even the best songs on the album)

MARCH 26, 2006


Sidelines

I mentioned Sidelines few weeks ago. I really liked their first recording called Gone Tomorrow. After that they've recorded two songs and you can hear both of these either at myspace or mikseri. And both of these new songs are also really really good. Just incredibly beautiful and warm music. Highly recommended.

Sidelines at myspace
Sidelines at mikseri

Tolbiac (this is the same old news entry, but now the website is really open)

Tolbiac is a one man project from Helsinki. You may have seen him before in various fabulous pop bands or even heard his voice on the radio. But now he has also opened his website where you can download several songs. In fact full album called "Sketches" is available for you there. Extremely highly recommended. You can find Tolbiac also from myspace.

Tolbiac Website
Tolbiac at myspace


MARCH 21, 2006


TV-Resistori

TV-Resistori's second full-lenth entitled "Serkut Rakastaa Paremmin" was released last week by Fonal Records. Most likely a brilliant release. You can check out several songs at their myspace or watch their new music video at fonal's website. After that you'll probably need to do the same thing I did and order the album. And they also have redesigned their own website.


TV-Resistori Website
TV-Resistori at myspace
The video at fonal records



Magenta Skycode

Magenta Skycode's debut album was also released last week by a new finnish label Solina Records. They also have some great songs at myspace. Listen to them and you'll know as much about them as I do. But yes. This is Jori Sjöroos' (This Empty Flow, Fu-Tourist etc) new band and the clips sound so good that I do need to check out the album as soon as possible.

Magenta Skycode Website
Magenta Skycode at myspace
Solina Records Website

Artisokka

Artisokka is getting more active again. They've already played some concerts and are working on their second album due out in 2006. They also has a new greatlooking website at artisokka.net.

Artisokka Website

MARCH 13, 2006

Treeball

Treeball's new album Liars in Love will be released by Kinkt Records on 12th of april. Read more information about the release on their myspace. There you can also hear four great songs from the upcoming album.

Treeball Website
Treeball at myspace



The Phonies

Second The Phonies album entitled "Gran Tourettes" is coming out on 30th of march. They also have a couple of wonderful tunes from the upcoming album available at myspace.

The Phonies Website
The Phonies at myspace




MARCH 7, 2006

TV-Resistori

TV-Resistori's second album is coming out on 15th of march on fonal records. Now you can listen two songs from the album entitled "Serkut rakastaa paremmin" (translates to "Cousins love better") on Fonal's jukebox. The record release party will be held at Päiväkoti, Turku on 10th of march. Also Mikuli Hansen & The Shrinks (or is that a typo, it was once shrimps) will hit the stage. Check out more information about TV-Resistori on their new website that opened today.

TV-Resistori Website
TV-Resistori at myspace
Fonal Records Website (you'll find the jukebox there)

MARCH 6, 2006

The Props

The Props have recorded a new single called "Billboard Cameo". It is not yet out and available in the record stores, but you can listen the a-side of the single at mikseri.net

The Props Website
The Props at mikseri.net




Poverty Stinks

Poko has really started releasing a lot of compilations. This "There must be...hits!" from Poverty Stinks is one of the best ones. Poverty Stinks was a really great pop band and they made several wonderful pop albums in the 90's. They surely wrote so many great 60's influenced pop songs. I guess you could call them even pop pioneers. Jarmo Laine is a genius and one hell of a songwriter. Just get this compilation and the summer will never end.

Poverty Stinks Website (last updated 1998)
Information about the compilation at Poko records Website


MARCH 1, 2006

Jyrock

Jyrock, a great indoor festival (and the best thing in Jyväskylä along with JYP and Vakiopaine as far as I'm concerned), will be held april 7th - 8th at Ilokivi, Jyväskylä. So far confirmed acts are:

John McGregor (whoa!!)
Jolly Jumpers (double whoa!!)
Plain Ride
I Was a Teenage Satan Worshipper
Boys of Scandinavia
Goodnight Monsters
Nicole Willis & the Soul Investigators
Harlem (SWE)
The Je Ne Sais Quoi (SWE)
David Gilmour Girls (NED)
Flamongo All Stars
The Millionares
Them Shepherds
Profeetta
Pets on Prozac
Selfish Shellfish

It sure looks like a wonderful festival again.

Jyrock Website (not yet Jyrock 2006 information)
Jyrock at myspace


FEBRUARY 28, 2006

Tolbiac

Tolbiac is a one man project from Helsinki. You may have seen him before in various fabulous pop bands or even heard his voice on the radio. But now he has also opened his website where you can download several songs. In fact full album called "Sketches" is available for you there. Extremely highly recommended. You can find Tolbiac also from myspace.

Tolbiac Website
Tolbiac at myspace

(it looks like I was a bit too hasty and the website is still under construction. But check back soon)

Ville Leinonen

New seven inch single from Ville Leinonen & Valumo has been released by Fonal Records. However, the songs aren't exactly new. In fact they are from their first record session that took place eight years ago. That my friend is actually a good thing, because at least yours truly thinks that this amazing group was in their finest form during those early days of they career. So this sounds like a real treasure from the vaults.

You can hear samples of the songs here:

Varpunen 7" info page at Fonal Records


RIS-TO

I'll let Fonal records' press release do the promoting part:

"Risto from Tampere, Finland releases a seven inch ep Hessu kostaa ja muita hiiritarinoita under an alias RIS-TO. With this new product the "saviours of Finnish indie-pop" broadens their output. This time in the direction of childrens songs. It should be clear however that this is not to be played to the minors. The title translates as Goofy avenges and other mouse stories. I tell you it's tough stuff."

You can hear samples of this tough stuff in here:

Hessu Kostaa info page at Fonal records

TV-Resistori

This fonal release is not yet available, but I guess it's already about time to start "hyping" this. TV-Resistori's second full-length Serkut rakastaa paremmin is ready and will be released 15th of march. This is one of the most important upcoming finnish releases and will surely be a stunning album. Record release party will be held at Päiväkoti Turku on the 10th of march. More about this when it is actually out and available..

TV-Resistori Website
TV-Resistori at myspace


More finnish pop bands at myspace

Because more and more finnish bands have entered myspace, let's update this link list a bit. I'm sure I forget some, but at least these are there. So if you want to hear some finnish pop music, check out these myspace links:

Samae Koskinen
TV-Resistori
Bridget
ultrasport
The Sugarrush
Cats on Fire
Sister Flo
Wojciech
Red Carpet
Starflower
Baby Sweetcorn
Jadecroon
Astrid Swan
Ethel Suspense
Mummypowder
Treeball
Big White Monkees
Goodnight Monsters
The Phonies
Cartoon Tree
22-Pistepirkko
Since November
Leaky Soles
Beacon St. Radiants
Jeeves
Snow Coloured Kid
Daisy
Scaramangas
Streetcar
Sidelines
Volter



FEBRUARY 27, 2006

The Conquistadors

The Conquistadors comes from Vaasa and their debut album "Mi Mascaras" will be released this spring by Kinkt Records. You can listen the radiosingle "Daydreamer" on their quite new website. Sounds bloody good to me and if you look closely, you might recognice some familiar faces behind the masks...



The Conquistadors Website


Lodger

Lodger is currently making their second album entitled "How Vulgar". You can listen the first single "Floozy With an Uzi" at urbanited.com.

Lodger Website
Lodger at myspace
Lodger at urbanited.com


Magenta Skycode

Magenta Skycode is a new indie rock band from Turku. It's led by highly talented Jori Sjöroos (Fu-Tourist, This Empty Flow). Their music has been described as electric post punk with lush epic melodies and compared to bands like Cure, Joy Division, Cocteau Twins. Their debut album will be released on 15th of march by Solina Records, but you can already check out one full song at their myspace. They also opened their website last week.


Magenta Skycode Website
Magenta Skycode at myspace
Solina Records Website

The Everglades

The Everglades is another new band for me. Their music is not that unique, but pop music hardly ever is. And it doesn't have to be when the melodies are as enjoyable as these. You can download their demo from their website or listen to the songs at myspace.

The Everglades
The Everglades at myspace

FEBRUARY 16, 2006

Starflower

Starflower's debut full-lenght has been ready for a while. They are currently trying to get someone to release it (now there's also a great record waiting for some label to pick it up), but they've also opened a myspace where you can hear three full Starflower songs. So while impatiently waiting for the album, let these three beauties hug and kiss you 'til the morning. It's excellent material as you might have guessed.

Starflower Website
Starflower at myspace



Sidelines

Sidelines is a new duo. They've only recorded one song so far, but it's a really beautiful song. You can hear this moving tune either at mikseri.net or at myspace.com. If you are interested in beautiful acoustic folkpop, check them out.

Sidelines at myspace.com
Sidelines at mikseri.net

The second coming of Patonki

Mr. Tomi Palsa's photogallery has been renewed. He is a great photographer and the stories behind the photos are also interesting. And because Tomi has such a fine taste in music, there are several great bands included. The gallery contains great-looking photos of The Posies, Brendan Benson, Jayhawks, Teenage Fanclub, Morrissey, Calexico and dozens of other ones. My favourite is still this awesome photo where Pat Fear from White Flag is singing karaoke with some old swedish gentleman. Now there's some feeling.

Toisen Palsan tuleminen Website


FEBRUARY 15, 2006

Karkkiautomaatti

"Sä kaiversit puhelinnumerosi purkkapaperiin
bussipysäkillä suudeltiin ja rakkautta vannottiin"

Everything Karkkiautomaatti ever released is now available on a new double-cd that was released on 15th of february by Stupido Records. It contains 59 songs from this legendary band. Truly one of the greatest finnish bands ever. Naiive and heartfelt pop music. Karkkiautomaatti has been an important part of my summer soundtrack for the ten last years and that will continue probably for years to come. This is ten times better than Jansku's new band Liekki (which is a good band too). So if you don't own anything by them yet, this is the easy way to get their whole catalog. And even if you own every single release, it's worth buying just for the support. This deserved to be released and will a perfect compilation. If I reviewed it, I think I would need more hearts than just five.

"Tahtoisin suudella sua niin
tahtoisin viedä sut elokuviin
ravintolaan viedä sinut syömään
sen jälkeen vähän flipperiä lyömään"

The Pansies

Also the new compilation by The Pansies is now out and available. The timing is rather nice, because Sam Shingler's new band Montevideo just released their first single and album will follow in the spring. The Pansies were led by Sam Shingler and Mia Keurulainen and released several good pop albums in the 90's. Now the best tracks are available on this compilation released by Poko Records on the 15th of February.



Aknestik

And that's now all. There is also a compilation out from Aknestik called Sata vuotta kaivossa. Aknestik is another legendary finnish pop band. This was already released last week by Poko Records and it will obviously be a great record and good introduction to them who don't Aknestik yet.




Since November

Since November has a new great looking website.

Since November Website










FEBRUARY 8, 2006

Samae Koskinen

Hooray! Samae's solo debut "Vol. 1" was released today by KHY Suomen Musiikki. Samae is also the frontman of Sister Flo and on this solo debut he has teamed up with some fine finnish poets/authors. Samae wrote the music himself, but the lyrics came from Sanna Karlström, Tomi Kontio, Inka Nousiainen, Kauko Röyhkä and Saila Susiluoto. The outcome of this collaboration is obviously fabulous eventhough at this point I can only base my opinion on couple of live performances.

Samae will have a full band with him on tour. Taikabändi's members are wonderful musicians and wonderful guys. It consists of Petri Nakari (Red Carpet), Janne Lastumäki (Kytäjä, Sister Flo, Laidun), Veli Kauppinen (Red Carpet, Laidun). So that's a damn good band and you can see them in the following locations..

Samae on tour:

17.2.2006 : Dynamo, Turku (+Taikabändi)
15.3.2006 : Tavastia-klubi, Helsinki (+Taikabändi)
24.3.2006 : Rytmikorjaamo, Sein?joki (+ Taikabändi)
25.3.2006 : West Coast Bar, Kokkola (+Taikabändi)
5.5.2006 : Telakka, Tampere
6.5.2006 : Hima & Sali, Helsinki

Samae Koskinen Website
Suomen Musiikki Website

Daisy

Daisy are offering several samples from their upcoming second album on their website. Daisy are also the latest finnish pop band that has entered to myspace.com. You can check out couple brand new Daisy tunes there as well.

Daisy Website
Daisy at myspace.com

FEBRUARY 7, 2006

Montevideo

Montevideo's first official release is an EP called Against The Grain. It was released by Stupido Records on 1st of february and the full-lenght will follow in march/april. You can download two songs from the EP on Stupido's website.

Montevideo Website
Stupido Website


Aksu

Aksu's album "Suomen Vanhin Tenavatähti" is also now out and available. Eventhough Aksu has himself gone to Tenerife to hide from the scary media attention, you can order the album from his website and the members of the world's largest record label, the american brothers, will put your copy into the mail.


Aksu Website
American Brothers Website

Tigerbombs

The second Tigerbombs album Crazy Kids Never Learn was released last week. You can check out some songs and a video "Punch Me Up" on their website.

Tigerbombs Website





JANUARY 27, 2006

Matti Johannes Koivu

The first solo album of Matti Johannes Koivu (ultramariini's vocalist) was released earlier this week by M.Dulor. It is called "Puuhastellen" and it contains nine songs. You can check out a sample of the song "Odota, odota" on his website.

Matti Johannes Koivu on tour:

10.2. Helsinki, Kipsari
11.2. Hämeenlinna, Hälläpyörä
23.2. Helsinki, Wanha Satama (huom! klo 12.00)
24.2. Kuopio, Henry's Pub
3.3. Jyväskylä, Vakiopaine (Matti ja Antti)
15.3. Helsinki, Tavastia
29.3. Hämeenlinna, O'Maggies
19.5. Jyväskylä, Lutakko
8.6. Joensuu, Bepop

Matti Johannes Koivu Website
M.Dulor Website

Ultramariini

Ultramariini also has a new release out. It's called Kauempana kuin kuu and it contains six brand new tracks and six remixes of their earlier songs. Knipi, Wojciech, Viola, Arttu Tolonen, Phuzy and JVA are behind the remixes. After this release Ultramariini will go on a little break, but the boys are probably still writing new tunes all the time. So it looks like Ultramariini will definitely return, but I guess we shouldn't wait anything to happen in the near future. Kauempana kuin kuu was also released by M.Dulor and you can check out the sample of the song "Me olemme koskettaneet tähtiä" on their website.

Ultramariini Website
M.Dulor Website

JANUARY 24, 2006

Samae Koskinen

Samae's website has been launched. Check it out at
http://www.samaekoskinen.net. The album will be out on 8th of february.

Samae Koskinen Website





Snow Coloured Kid..

..Is a new finnish bedroom indie pop hero. Or is it too early to say that because he has only made one song so far and even that is just a rough early demo version of it? But that unfinished song is definitely a good song and I'm looking forward to hear more material from Snow Coloured Kid. You can hear the song at his myspace page.

Snow Coloured Kid at myspace.com


Finnish bands at myspace

And there are obviously other great finnish bands at myspace. So check out these too.

The Sugarrush
Cats on Fire
Ethel Suspense
Mummypowder
Treeball
Cartoon Tree
22-Pistepirkko
Since November
Leaky Soles
Beacon St. Radiants
Jeeves
Snow Coloured Kid
Scaramangas
Streetcar
I Was a Teenage Satan Worshipper
Tigerbombs
Latebirds
Kim Curly Band
They Stole a Million

I'm sure there are more, but at least those are there. And then there's also one pretty damn ugly and shy boy too, but that's not important.

JANUARY 18, 2006

Ethel Suspense

Ethel Suspense's new demo "M1" was a pleasant surprise that was waiting for me when I got home today. And oh my. It surely warmed my heart after being nearly freezed to death at work. Again three wonderful songs and one of those demos that make me dream about having a tiny label that would release such pop gems that the bigger boys seem to ignore. Heavenly guitar pop melodies, bit of alt. country and beautiful singing always work for me. You can listen samples of the new songs on their website. And be sure you'll catch Ethel Suspense on stage when Ylivieska guitar army hits the road in the beginning of february.

Ylivieska Guitar Army Tour (Ethel Suspense, Cartoon Tree, Pablo Heraldex):

03.02.06 Pikku-Torre, Turku (Flavour of the Month -club)
04.02.06 Hälläpyörä, Hämeenlinna
05.02.06 Vastavirta, Tampere

Ethel Suspense Website

TV-Resistori / Islaja

Fonal Records just released a split 7" single by TV-Resistori and Islaja. On the single Islaja makes a version TV-Resistori's "Melodi Melodika" and TV-Resistori on the other hand covers "Kämmen, Kynsi, Kieli" by islaja. Check out the samples on Fonal's website

Fonal website


Kytäjä

Kytäjä's debut album saw the light today. It was released by 22-pistepirkko's Bone Voyage label. Kytäjä is the love child of Jarno Alho and Janne Lastumäki (who we already know from Sister Flo). Because I've only heard the medley that you'll find on their website, I'll better just quote their bio and not even try to desribe them myself:

"The debut album by Kytäjä blends together influences from a wide variety of sources. There’s absolutely echoes of the finnish rock history. Some Wigwam and Jukka Tolonen lurking behind the bushes. The songs are delivered in a sort of an jazzy way somewhat reminiscent of the british canterbury scene. More self-taught than educated, that is.

Add an overall scandinavian pastoral mood, touches of atonality, soul music and, uh, maybe even traces of pompousness of the Zeppelin kind and you’re starting to have a hunch of what it's all about."

Kytäjä Website


Underdogs

Underdogs is a band that seems to keep getting better all the time. Their new EP called Do You Believe? has been out for a while. You can listen the songs also on their website.

Underdogs Website



JANUARY 11, 2006

House of Love festival

A reminder. House of Love festival will be held this friday at Vanha Ylioppilastalo, Helsinki. It sure looks like a heavenly pop festival. See you there.

House of Love festival artists:

John McGregor, Drowsy, Es (finland)
Frida Hyvönen, Action Biker, The Tourettes (sweden)
Pia Fraus (estonia)
Riviera F (UK)

Vanha ylioppilastalo
13.01.2006 (16.00-04.00)

House of Love Festival Website
Chorus Website (the organizer)

Samae Koskinen

Samae's upcoming solo album will most likely be one of the best albums released in Finland during last few years. The first single Hän asuu näillä kulmilla is now in stores. It contains two exclusive tracks, Virsi and Krakatau. The album will hit the stores and your heart on 8th of february.

Samae Koskinen at Suomen musiikki




Tapes

Debut album of Tapes will be in stores this week. Tapes is a solo project of Jukka Salminen (Tigerbombs, Laurila). Beautiful songs based on singer-songwriter tradition. A really lovely record that was released by Aisti Records. Tapes have been compared to folks like Samae, Jose Gonzales... And I've heard him play Evan Dando's All My Life on a live concert and that can never be a bad thing.

Tapes Website
Small Room (mp3)
Outside from the Box (mp3)


Bookends

Well you'll find more about them from the previous news entry. So read that if you haven't done so yet. This is just a reminder that the album is out on friday and they will be playing two gigs this weekend.

Bookends on tour:

Turku - Flavor of the Month -club, Pikku-Torre, January 13th (with Goodnight Monsters)
Tampere - Artturi, January 14th
Rovaniemi - Pub Tupsu, February 3rd

Bookends Website

Black Audio

Black Audio's new album Iron Rhino will be released on friday the 13th of january by wonderfyl If Society. I already have it and it really is a damn good album. They celebrate the new album at Telakka (tre) this friday. They will share the stage with another amazing group, Laurila.

Black Audio Website
Video Store (mp3)
If Society Website

Lemonator

Lemonator will return in the spring with a new album called At The Presence Of Great Beauty. You can follow the making of the album on their studio diary on their website.

Lemonator Website





JANUARY 4, 2006

Bookends

Seventh For the Song, debut album by Bookends will be released on 13th of january. It will be a co-release by Rhythm Barrel Records, Keinu [a record company] and Spiritual Partners. They've already given a facelift to their website which now contains several one minute long samples from the album. The songs seem so magnificent that I'm almost upset when they fade out after that one minute. It will be hard to be able to handle my excitement for one or two weeks until I'm able hear the full songs. I'm so eagerly waiting to hear more. It sure looks like this pop band from the northern part of Finland will be able to live up to the high expectations that their self-released EP set. Already on the EP, they had some marvellous vocal parts and that seems to continue here on this debut. Heck, when I listen to some of these beautiful vocal harmonies on these small clips, my heart loses so many beats that I almost pass out (of happiness). But read more information about this pop group that leans on vocal harmonies, acoustic guitars and beautiful heartwarming melodies on their website. I'll get back when I've actually heard the full album.

Bookends on tour:

Turku - Flavor of the Month -club, Pikku-Torre, January 13th (with Goodnight Monsters)
Tampere - Artturi, January 14th
Rovaniemi - Pub Tupsu, February 3rd

Bookends Website

DECEMBER 20, 2005

ultrasport

In early december, ultrasport released an online single 'The Boy that Never Lied' on their website. If you already haven't done so, you better go and download the song + print ready cd label artwork. The song is obviously fantastic. Well I guess everyone knew that already, because all ultrasport songs are fantastic.



ultrasport Website


Levyvirasto

Levyvirasto have started to sell also digital music. Which is a nice addition, eventhough I prefer to buy the actual records. If you don't yet know Levyvirasto, this stolen quote from their website tells what it's all about:

"We are small company with great interest in Finnish indie music. We are offering marketplace, where good music finds the audience it deserves.

70% of selling price goes directly to the artist. Buying from us is great way to support your favourite bands!"

So it sounds like a great thing and it looks like their catalog is getting better all the time.

Levyvirasto Website

Kuningasklubi

New club called Kuningasklubi will see the light on 21st of january. It will focus on indie and alternative music and it will be held once in a month at Tavastia. On the opening night, the stage will be shared by danish Whomadewho and finnish Boys of Scandinavia.

Whomadewho Website
Boys of Scandinavia Website


DECEMBER 17, 2005


Onechord's (well my) best albums/songs/little discs of the year lists now available.

And here they are...


DECEMBER 13, 2005

Starflower

Starflower gives us two samples from their forthcoming album on their website. Songs are called Dance till the Morning Light and All by Myselft and they both seem great to me. Check them out.

Starflower Website


DECEMBER 1, 2005

Goodnight Monsters

The debut album of Goodnight Monsters came out on 30th of november. It's called 'The Brain That Wouldn't Die and it was released by Bone Voyage (22-Pistepirkko's band-owned label). Check out few sound clips on their website and start saving money for another record purchase.

Goodnight Monsters on tour:

9.12. Turku, Kortteliravintola Kerttu
16.12. Helsinki, Tavastia (+ 22-Pistepirkko)

Goodnight Monsters Website


Since November

New web address is sincenovember.com. Update your bookmarks and links. The first outtake from the upcoming album Houston, Changing Manual has received lots of air play in the finnish radio. You can still download the song from the band website. There's some new promo photos too.

Since November Website

NOVEMBER 23, 2005

Viola

Viola's second album Anything Can Stop Us was released on 23rd of november by If Society. It proves that Viola is still a damn good band. I was a little bit worried before hearing the new album, but they easily won my heart over. Viola is nowadays a duo and have gone towards more electronic direction, but one thing have not changed. Their music is still wonderful.


Viola Website
If Society Website


Boys of Scandinavia

Another new If Society release is the debut album of Boys of Scandinavia (well I guess it's a co-release with Mate Recordings). Mate describes that Boys of Scandinavia is the bridge the gap between post-punk and electro-funk. The album is called Kill The Party, but it contains loads of good songs and trendy and dark indie disco sounds that actually might start a party in your head.

Boys of Scandinavia Website
If Society Website
Mate Recordings Website


NOVEMBER 19, 2005

Laurila

Two full songs from their first demo are now available on their website. So you better leave this onechord website immediately and go to the Laurila website and download at least the song called 'Hayley' which is one of the songs of the year. and the other song 'The Greatest Fight' is a good one as well.


Laurila Website


Aksu

and then something completely different. New American Brothers release is a single from "suomen vanhin tenavatähti", Aksu. What on earth is that all about? Well I don't really know, but the songs are really fun and enjoyable. Check out more information on Aksu's website.

Aksu Website


NOVEMBER 17, 2005

Red Carpet

Red Carpet's wonderful second album The Noise of Red Carpet was released in Japan on 17th of november. It features one extra song (it's Leave a Light On that was a b-side of a single here in Finland) and different artwork. The japanese label that released the album is called Quince Records. It's the same one that released ultrasport and The Tunes albums. Needless to say that I love and adore that label for things like these. And their catalogue is actually full of awesome pop albums from all over the globe. The finnish ones are not the only great ones. This deal also means that soon you will be able to buy the Red Carpet album also from US online indie retailers.

Red Carpet Website
Quince Records Website

NOVEMBER 15, 2005

Regina

Regina's debut album Katso Maisemaa is now out and available. Released by Next Big Thing. It's time for you to fall in love with this new finnish electro pop group. They celebrate the release of the album with three concerts.

Dates are the following:


25.11.2005 Club Continental, Dynamo, Turku,
26.11.2005 Tanssikerho, Klubi, Tampere,
02.12.2005 Alahuone, Helsinki

Regina Website
Next Big Things Website


NOVEMBER 14, 2005

House of Love festival 13.01.2006

I will cry for a week, if I'm not able to be in Helsinki on 13th of january. Chorus will arrange a pop festival called House Of Love and they've already booked some incredibly artists. So far confirmed are John McGregor and Drowsy from Finland, Pia Fraus from Estonia and Action Biker, Frida Hyvönen and The Tourettes from Sweden. It sure looks like a heavenly pop festival already and they say there will be even more bookings coming up. The event will be held at Vanha Ylioppistalo. Check out more information on the festival website.

House of Love festival artists:

John McGregor at Suomen Musiikki Website (fin)
Drowsy at Fat Cat Records Website (fin)
Pia Fraus Website (est)
Action Biker Website (swe)
Frida Hyvönen Website (swe)
The Tourettes Website (swe)

Vanha ylioppilastalo
13.01.2006 (16.00-04.00)

House of Love Festival Website
Chorus Website


NOVEMBER 13, 2005

Since November

Tomi Mäkilä and The Crash parted ways some time ago. The good thing in that was that maybe Tomi can now finally get his own band Since November back on track. And things have surely started to take shape. The upcoming album will have a space theme around it. So you can expect robots, meteors and satellites appear as a disguise for the more common pop song subjects as love and relationships. You can hear an mp3 preview of the album on his website. The song is called Houston, Changing Manual. The song sounds great to me, so let's hope that Tomi can get the album finished and some label will release it soon.

Since November Website


NOVEMBER 10, 2005

Astrid Swan

There has been so much marvellous stuff coming out in Finland that I don't seem to be able to keep up with them all. This new single Good Girl by Astrid Swan already came out on 31st of october on Delphic Recordings. It's a truly great song. One of the best tracks on her wonderful debut album Poverina that came out earlier this year. She also has a new website.


Astrid Swan Website


Streetcar

New Streetcar demo-EP Random Acts of Love is available in mp3 format on their website. This time they sound a lot better than on the earlier Random Acts of Kindness EP. Well the earlier one did have one good song too, but the other one was kind of annoying. This new ep on the other hand contains two really good songs. Slow and beautiful pop music. These songs surely got me interested and I will keep my eye on them much more closely than before.

Streetcar Website


NOVEMBER 9, 2005

Ville Härkönen & Velvet

Maryland called its quits a while ago. But let's not worry because the boys are still making great music. In fact, I believe Ville Härkönen & Velvet might be even a better band. At least their music is closer to my own likings. More country and less disco works for me. Their first album Lemonade Cowboys was released today on 9th of november by Merceedees tuotanto. The album was produced by Ville Leinonen.








Ville Härkönen & Velvet on tour

wed 16.11. Wanha Jokela, Joensuu (Sointu-klubi)
fri 2.12. Pikku-Torre, Turku (Flavour Of The Month-klubi with Jukka Takalo)
sat 3.12. Vakiopaine, Jyväskylä
mon 5.12. Telakka, Tampere
sat 17.12. Semifinal, Helsinki (Club Mojo, with Janne Laurila)

More information on their new website

Velvet photo: Raimo Kilpiä

Leaky Soles

As I mentioned before, the debut album Simple Songs for Complicated People by Leaky Soles was released last friday. It's full of great melodic indie rock. Highly recommend. They also have a nice new website at leakysoles.com with two full mp3 songs available from the album.

Leaky Soles Website


Scaramangas

And there's more great stuff. Also the debut album by The Scaramangas is now out and available. Released by Edel Records on 9th of november. The release party will be held at ravintolalaiva Wäiski on 11th of november.

The Scaramangas Website




Boys Of Scandinavia

Boys of Scandinavia's single Why Do You Love was released by If Society last week. The full-lenght album will follow on 23rd of november. Check out the brand new Boys of Scandinavia website for more.

Boys Of Scandinavia Website

BOS Photo: Kaisa Matikainen

NOVEMBER 3, 2005

Marian Valinta

I've mentioned it before, but it doesn't hurt to say it again. Marian Valinta, which started out as Ilja Karsikas solo project, is nowadays a band. The new information is that they now have a brand new website.

Marian Valinta Website


Laurila

Also Laurila has now a website. Laurila is obviously Janne Laurila's new band. The hockey freak with the green guitar and the best singing voice in Finland already made fabulous music in Office Building. Office Building's debut album To See Only Shadows is the most moving album I've ever heard. So there's a lot to live up to. However, I got the chance to hear the first demo of Laurila, and it looks like there's nothing to worry. It contained two good songs and two absolutely magnificent songs. Maybe they rock a bit more than OB and it's quite close to power pop too at times. But great stuff definitely. The other members of Laurila are Pete Suorsa (bass), Antti Hietala (drums) ja Jukka Salminen (guitar, vocals, organ).

Laurila Website


NOVEMBER 2, 2005

Leaky Soles

Simple Songs For Complicated People, The debut album of Leaky Soles will be released on 4th of november by Rhythm Barrel Records. The record release party will be held at Pikku-Torre on the same night. It's Flavour of The Month club and the other act of the evening is Cosmobile. Go there and buy the record as well. I've heard it and it's a really good album. The label owner, mr. Rhythm Barrel himself, put names like Sebadoh, Dino Jr, Superchunk and Weakerthans to the press release. So that should give you some kind of idea about them.

Leaky Soles Website (under construction)

Tapes

Tapes, the solo project of Jukka Salminen (Tigerbombs, Laurila), has now a website. The recording of his first album is also finished and will hopefully come out before the end of the year 2005. The music is really beautiful singer-songwriter stuff with minimal instrumentation. Just the man and guitar is often enough. And in this case it definitely is. Both songs that are on his website are just great. Tapes should be added to the band section of this website too (and so should Laurila where Jukka also plays). Now visit the new Tapes site.

Tapes Website

OCTOBER 25, 2005

Marsu on paras collective brings Darren Hanlon and Mark Monnone to Finland

Hurray! Marsu really is the best. This time Marsu on paras will bring two wonderful australian pop singer-songwriters to Finland. They are Darren Hanlon and Mark Monnone (yeah, he is from The Lucksmiths).

Darren Hanlon and Marko Monnone in Finland:

Wed 23.11.2005 Tampere, Telakka. tickets 5 eur
Thu 24.11.2005 Helsinki, Liberté (+ Harry Hunks duo). Tickets 5 eur

Darren Hanlon Website
Three Cheers Website that contain two demo songs from Mark
Candle Records Website

OCTOBER 23, 2005

Viola

Viola's second album Anything Can Stop Us is coming out on 23rd of november and they've already put one mp3 song called 'I Don't Know How to Party' on their website. So time to check out the new more electric Viola.

Viola Website







Scaramangas

The Scaramangas single 'Eight and a Half' was reissued by Edel Records some time ago and it has received a lot of praise in the finnish rock media. The album 'All is Good Now' will follow on 9th of november

The Scaramangas Website


OCTOBER 9, 2005

Regina

Regina's first single came out in the beginning of october. It contains two songs and was released by new-ish label called Next Big Thing. So time for you to get to know this new finnish electro-pop wonder.

Regina Website
Next Big Thing Website


Goodnight Monsters

Things are looking bright for Goodnight Monsters. They just played a few shows with 22-pistepirkko in Germany and their album 'The Brain that Wouldn't Die' will finally get an official release too. It will be released by Bon Voyage on 18th of november. Their new website just opened a while ago. So check that out for more facts, pictures and sound clips.



Goodnight Monsters Website
BB.Island / Bone Voyage Website

Goodnight Monsters photo: Nelli Palomäki

Marian Valinta

Marian Valinta is a band now. Therefore they've decided not to officially release the latest recordings that Ilja did by himself , because the arrangements etc might change radically after a band treatment. But no need to worry. You can download all the songs from mikseri.net, burn them on a cd and print the covers from the net if you want to make yourself a demo cd out of those songs. It's great stuff obviously so just hit that link below and start askarrella.

Marian Valinta songs at mikseri

Montevideo

Montevideo has signed a record deal with Stupido records. The mixing of their debut album is also now complete, but there's now info about the release schedule yet. Meanwhile check out their new wonderful songs (and the old ones if you haven't done that before) on their website.

Montevideo Website

SEPTEMBER 28, 2005


Red Carpet1

The Noise of Red Carpet, the second album by Red Carpet, was released today by If Society. Record release party will be held at Semifinal on 8th of october. It's a Club Limousine and the band sharing the stage with Red Carpet is Goodnight Monsters. Red Carpet also has a new website which is still under construction. However, you can already listen samples from the album, so please go there. Now!

Red Carpet on stage:

07.10 Red Carpet -Suomirock Bar Jee Jee, Tampere
08.10 Club Limousine: Red Carpet, Goodnight Monsters -Semifinal, Helsinki

Red Carpet Website
If Society Website

SEPTEMBER 26, 2005

Wojciech

Wojciech's second album Ampiainen ompeli was released last week by Plastic Passion. The label says It's a sci-fi trip to the weird world of Wojciech. The band is also currently on tour with Ultramariini.

30.09.2005 - Redneck, Jyväskylä (with Ultramariini)
01.10.2005 - Päiväkoti, Turku (with Ultramariini)
12.10.2005 - Bar Mary, Porvoo (with Ultramariini)
15.10.2005 - Kipsari, Helsinki (with Ultramariini)
28.10.2005 - Club 19, Pori

Wojciech Website
Plastic Passion Website

SEPTEMBER 1, 2005

Beacon St. Radiants.

The first Beacon St. Radiants release, an EP entitled 'First Degree Desperation' will be released tomorrow on the 2nd of september by a new label, Killer Robot Records. So tomorrow when we celebrate the seventh birthday of Flavour of The Month (the finest pop club there is), we can also have a record release party at the same time (see more about the FOTM partee in the previous news entry). First Degree Desperation contains 9 tracks. The first five are the latest recordings + plus then there's four old tunes as bonus tracks. It's a great release definitely. The first five songs that form the actual EP, are all really good. They name Neil Young, Wilco, Lemonheads, Chris Isaak and Bruce Springsteen as some of their influences. So that might give you some kind of clue about what they sound like. I guess one could say that it is some kind of mix of indierock and americana. But check out the songs on their website to get a better view of their sound.

Beacon St. Radiants Website
Killer Robot Website

Red Carpet

Red Carpet's second album 'Noise of Red Carpet' will hit the stores on 28th of september. So we still need to wait a while for it, but before setting a camp outside the record store we can first listen an mp3-preview of the album hundreds of times on either the band's website or on If Society's website (their label). The song is called 'When You Sing'. It's Petri's song and a damn good one (well we knew that without even hearing it).

Red Carpet Website
If Society Website

AUGUST 28, 2005

The Phonies

New The Phonies single was released on 27th of august. You can buy it and listen to it on their website. It's a really great one btw. That first track 'Doggy Collar' is a real killer and the other songs is a good one too.

The Phonies Website


Flavour of the month's 7th anniversary

The best pop club, Flavour of the month, celebrates its 7th anniversary next friday 2nd of september at Pikku-Torre, Turku. Two stages full of great artists. The australian gentleman Joe Algeri plays a solo set. The other solo artist is Lauri Eloranta from Damn Seagulls. On the band stage there are Red Carpet, Tigerbombs and Beacon st. Radiants (who also release their first ep record on the same day, more about that later). So it will be a really great party. That's for sure. So I must travel to Turku. See you there.

John McGregor

John McGregor's beautiful debut album 'Joki' was released last wednesday by KHY Suomen Musiikki. The album is just amazing and it has been great to see that most of the reviewers seem to think so too. All the reviews that have been popping up during the last week have been full of praises. Folk music that is so full of heart. Joki might even be the best album released in 2005. There's an interview and one full song at Nyt's website.

John McGregor at Suomen Musiikki website
John McGregor interview at NYT

AUGUST 18

Astrid Swan

Wonderful in-depth interview with Astrid Swan is available at musicaldiscoveries.com. Definitely worth reading. Also Astrid's latest single Poverina is now available in mp3 format on her website.

Read the interview here
Listen Poverina here




AUGUST 17, 2005

Jukka Takalo

Jukka Takalo's first solo album was released today by Poko Records. There's some kind of record release party on his website at http://jukkatakalo.poko.fi/ on friday from 6 pm to 4 am. I have no idea what's that about, but I guess we just need to surf in and see what is happening. But before that. Visit your local record store and get the album.


Jukka Takalo website

AUGUST 15, 2005

ultrasport

ultrasport's debut album 'Nothing Can Go Wrong' will finally be released also in finland today on 15th of august. It's a co-release by Gashopper and Marsu on paras. So if you do not already have the japanese version of the album, make sure you'll now get one of the best records of the year. More information and plenty of sound samples on the band's website.


ultrasport Website


Latebirds

Latebirds' excellent second album 'Radio Insomnia' was released on 10th of august by Grandpop records. You can listen samples from the songs on the band's new website.

Latebirds Website
Grandpop Website



Short but as important newsbits

Jeeves has a new song at Mikseri. <click>

Puumaja has two new songs on their website. Mikko has also returned back from Scotland so they are gettin active again. <-click>

Marian valinta has turned into a band and there's also one new song at Mikseri. First gig as a band is at super 8 club on 16th of august at Liberte. It will be the release party of Super 8 compilation. <click>


AUGUST 5, 2005

Cheerleaders United

New Cheerleaders United single "Resurrection
Street" / "Loving The Sinner, Hating The Sin" was released today on the 5th of august by Plastic Passion. The a-side is their own song and b-side is Dream Syndicate cover. The band also has a new member. Jaakko Söderström (Ben's Diapers) has joined in and will play keyboards, third guitar and sing backing vocals.


Cheerleaders United Website

JULY 29, 2005

Latebirds

New Latebirds album Radio Insomnia will be released on 10th of august by Grandpop Records. You can already download the first single 'Dream Dream' from the label's website. The album will surely be a great one. Eventhough it's not the main point, they do have some brilliant guests playing on the album as well. Ken Stringfellow, Wayne Kramer, several Wilco members etc. So be ready to visit the record store as the first thing in the morning of 10.08.2005.

Latebirds Website
Grandpop Website

JULY 23, 2005

ultrasport

Jee. ultrasport's wonderful debut album 'Nothing Can Go Wrong' will finally be released in Finland and Sweden on 15th of august. It will be a co-release by Gashopper and Marsu on paras and it will be distributed by Playground. So if you were not able to find the earlier japanese release, there are no excuses anymore. Go and buy the album. It's one perfect indie pop album.

ultrasport Website


Viola

Sad news from Viola. Viola as we know it is over. As of now, Riku and Tommi will continue making music as a duo and are going into more electronic direction. The new album is still scheduled to be released on the 23rd of november. But now it's time to thank Esa and Anu for their efforts and wish them all the best. I'm extremely saddened because of the split up. I've not been a fan for a long time, but Tearcandy became so important for me and therefore I think that someway the Viola that I will cherish in my heart will always have four members. Unfortunately things don't always remain the same. So thank you Esa and Anu and good luck with everything in the future. But also good luck to Riku and Tommi. I'm confident that Viola will keep making wonderful music and I'm waiting eagerly for the follow-up to Tearcandy.

Viola Website


JULY 6, 2005

Office Building calls its quits after the summer

Now that they've made it official on their website, It's time for this sad bit of news. Office Building breaks up after seven years. Which is a sad thing, because the band has created lots of memorable songs. Songs so beautiful and moving. 'To See Only Shadows' is the most important finnish album for me ever and I've been a huge fan since. But still I'm not devastated, because Janne Laurila will continue making music as a solo artist. If he wouldn't be, then I would be more than devastated. Anyway, there are not many concerts left. So if you haven't yet seen them, you don't have many chances. One will be at My Own Summer (Tammerfest) on 15 th of july. That's the only known date, but they are planning some kind of special/farewell concert that will probably be at Tampere in september. If it is possible I surely want to go and feel the beauty of their music for the last time.

Office Building Website

Ville Härkönen & Velvet

Ville Härkönen (from Maryland) have done lots of solo / duo concerts in the recent years. The material have differed a bit from Maryland. A bit more country/folk/iskelmä. Now he has taken two friends along and formed a new band. Together as a trio they will now perform this material live and make a full-lenght record. The album will be produced by Ville Leinonen and it will probably be released in late 2005 by Merceedees tuotanto. First concert will be on sunday 17th of july at Club Kasettiasema, Kerubin Kuppila, Joensuu (Ilosaarirock-club)

Ville Härkönen & Velvet Website

Samae solo

Samae Koskinen (from Sister Flo) is currently working on a solo record. It will be in finnish and some well-known finnish poets / writers will write the lyrics. At least Sanna Karlström, Tomi Kontio, Inka Nousiainen, Kauko Röyhkä and Saila Susiluoto are involved. The album will be out in late 2005 on KHY Suomen Musiikki Oy.



Suomen Musiikki Website
Sister Flo Website



JULY 1, 2005

Baby Sweetcorn

Baby Sweetcorn's long-waited piano album 'Ghosts and Sunsets' was released today. They have a music video of the song 'Choices' available on their website. If the rest of the songs are as great, then it will be one awesome album.

Baby Sweetcorn Website




Cartoon Tree to support Teenage Fanclub

Cartoon Tree will support Teenage Fanclub at Tavastia on the 8th of july. That is just great and I actually thought about it when it was announced that TFC is coming to Tavastia. I thought how great it would be if Cartoon Tree (and especially Huuki as the biggest TFC fan in the world probably) had the chance to share the stage with their idols. And thankfully I now get to see that. So good luck guys. Have a memorable evening.

Cartoon Tree Website

JUNE 20, 2005

Jukka Takalo

New Jukka Takalo single Jos annat kesän was released on 15th of june by Poko Records. The really long-waited album will follow on 17th of august.

Jukka Takalo Website




JUNE 15, 2005

Genius Breed is alive

I had been thinking whether I should remove Genius Breed from onechord.net, because I had not heard about them for a long time and wasn't even sure whether the band existed anymore. It was quiet for years, but luckily Genius Breed didn't die. The old EPs still sound good to me, but now we can finally adore their new songs. Two of them are now available for download at mikseri.net along with two older treats. So go and treat yourself with the finest emo/indierock. (and thanks to Henrik for sending me an email about this)

Genius Breed at Mikseri

JUNE 9, 2005

Astrid Swan

The title track of Astrid's marvellous debut album 'Poverina' was released as a single on the 8th of june by Delphic Recordings. And get the album too while you're at it. It truly is great and I'm ashamed that lately I haven't been able to find enough time and/or energy to praise such great releases.



Astrid Swan Website
Delphic Recordings Website


Wojciech

New seven inch vinyl single "Haukotellaan (Ollaan tylsää seuraa) / Kryounihanget" will be released tomorrow 10th of june by Plastic Passion. Release partee will be held in the same evening at Dynamo, Turku. It is Club Continental which means that band starts playing already at 10 pm, so be there on time. See you there. I'm the guy who probably is going to haukotella, because I'm gonna jump into a bus right after my night shift at work around 7 am.

Wojciech Website
Plastic Passion Website

JUNE 5, 2005

Baby Sweetcorn

Baby Sweetcorn will release a piano album called Ghosts and Sunsets this summer. The release concert will be held at Annankatu 6 on the 1st of july. While waiting for the concert and the album, you can watch their new music video that is on their website. The song is called 'Choices' and it is just marvellous and truly beautiful. The album will surely be amazing.


Baby Sweetcorn Website


The Tunes

The Tunes album is now available worldwide. The finest power pop online store Not Lame carries the album and surely Bruce Brodeen doesn't hide his excitement about the band and the album. If you didn't believed me when I praised this album few months ago, go and read Not Lame's description about the album (+buy it if you don't have it yet). They surely know everything there is to know about good pop music and still wrote that The Tunes album is The BEST, MOST CLASSIC Power Pop Album of 2005.

The Tunes Website
The Tunes album at Not Lame (with sound clips)

MAY 24, 2005

Hidden Cameras to Finland (and Jens Lekman too)

Excellent canadian group The Hidden Cameras are coming to Finland in june. Joel Gibb and Maggie MacDonald play two shows here as a duo with finnish support acts Harry Hunks and The Rollstons. Marsu on paras collective organizes these perfect evenings. A huge thanks to them. The Hidden Cameras is a truly great band. They've been compared to groups like Belle & Sebastian and Magnetic Fields. Intelligent, unique and wonderfully arranged pop music. Don't miss it. Unfortunately I will miss it, because I have an evening shift at work that week.

Ti. 14.6.2005 Tampere, Telakka. Tickets 5 euros
Ke. 15.6.2005 Helsinki, Dubrovnik. Tickets 8 euros

The Hidden Cameras Website
The Rollstons Website
Harry Hunks Website
Marsu on paras Website

MAY 22, 2005

Lua

New indiepopclub starts on wednesday 25th of may at Sky bar, Vaasa. Afterwards it will be held every sunday in the same place. There will be lots of live shows, guest dj's etc. Vaasa-based group Nestor and The Fauns will be on the stage on the opening night. It all sounds great. These are just the kind of things that every city needs.



MAY 15, 2005

Janne Laurila, Tapes & Erik Vallin (swe)

Singer-songwriter tour that you just can't miss. Janne Laurila and Tapes with swedish Erik Vallin are on tour this week. See the dates below. Everyone knows that Janne is great. I haven't heard Tapes, but based on what I've red or heard, he makes totally my kind of music. Erik Vallin is from stockholm and yläkaupungin yö website describes that his music is somewhere between Beck and Nick Drake. If this Erik Vallin is the same Erik Vallin then he is really good. Because I've been listening to those two songs for an hour and I love them.

17.5. Beetroot, Helsinki
18.5. Pikku-Torre, Turku
19.5. Leskirouva/kulttuurikahvila, Toijala
20.5 Eläköön Lepovaunu -festivaali, Savonlinna
21.5 Yläkaupungin yö -festivaali, Jyväskylä
22.5 Telakka, Tampere

Datarock (norway) on tour

Also norwegian Datarock is touring in Finland:

19.05 Helsinki, Liberte, Music Is Better-club
20.05 Turku, Dynamo
21.05 Jyväskylä, Ylakaupungin Yo

Datarock website


MAY 13, 2005

Astrid Swan

Astrid Swan's excellent debut album Poverina was released on the 11th of may by Delphic Recordings. It is really marvellous stuff. Popjazzsoul. She will also be opening for Lou Barlow on the 18th of may at Tavastia.

Astrid Swan Website
Delphic Recordings Website



Red Carpet

Jee! New Red Carpet vinyl single 'Summertime Pop 45 for Rain Soaked Sunbathers' came out today. It was released by the awesome If Society label. Two new songs. Veli's tune entitled Blood, Sweat and Tears on the a-side and Petri's song 'Leave a Light On' on the other side. Both songs are again truly wonderful. I'm really looking forward to the upcoming second album.

Red Carpet Website (inc sample clip)
If Society Website

Cats On Fire

I'm not sure can you actually buy this, but Cats On Fire has recorded a new demo 'Seelonce Mayday' that I truly love. Four excellent new songs. Great melodic songs, awesome lyrics. Way too good stuff to be left on a demo. I hope the future will bring an official release or even a full-length album. Because if they have more material like this, I do think they are able to make a really good album. They are planning to add sound clips to their website. So you may want to go there now and keep hitting the refresh button, until the samples are there.

Cats On Fire Website

APRIL 28, 2005

Popsters

Harri Huuki Huuhtanen's (also known from Cartoon Tree and Ben's Diapers) photograph gallery Popsters is open between 30th of april and 29th of may at B-Galleria, Turku. Opening party will be held on friday 29th of april at 6pm. Read more about it on the Popsters website

Popsters Website

Teenage Fanclub

Well now we are getting away from finnish music for a while, but it is well worth to mention this. One of the greatest bands ever is about to release their new album Man-Made on 9th of may. If you want to hear the album in advance, you can take part in one of those evenings that you see on the poster. Record starts playing every night at 9 pm. But it is not just that. Dj Huuki will play only Teenage Fanclub during the whole night (in Helsinki there will be some other music as well). It is a great way to celebrate the release of the new TFC album.

Teenage Fanclub Website



All Stars

Let's have another try. I was too hasty some weeks ago and wrote a news entry about the release of All Stars' second album 'Older!, Slower! Softer!'. Well it wasn't released then, but it should be out any day now. Release party will be held at Turkoosi, Helsinki on the 30th of april.

All Stars Website


APRIL 27, 2005

Drowsy

Drowsy is a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Joutseno. His debut album titled 'Growing Green' was just released by british label Fat Cat Records. The sound clips on the label's site sound really fantastic. Folk, country, down-to-earth. Bit rough, but still warm and beautiful. The label says "Despite recalling singer songwriters such as Smog, Syd Barrett, Plush or Robert Wyatt, and an apparent leaning towards late ’60’s acid folk, Drowsy’s music is simultaneously fresh and unique." Interesting newcomer. Not really pop music, but because I'm also very much into this kind of material, I had to mention this here too. This is really great stuff.

Drowsy at Fat Cat Records Website (Plenty of sound samples)

APRIL 20, 2005

Beacon St. Radiants

I mentioned this new band few days ago. If you tried their songs then and wasn't yet fully convinced, now you will be convinced. The new songs are now online and those are good songs, damn good songs. No wonder that Turku guys recommended the band to me. I'm really losing my mind when listening to this new material. Five new songs that are all amazing. For example that song called 'See The Stars' is so beautiful. I think I need to add these guys to the band section soon. It so my kind of stuff. A bit of 90's indierock (like that guitar sound at times), some alt.country and beautiful pop melodies. Very impressive. I'm already a fan.

Beacon St. Radiants Website

The Sugarrush & Ben's Diapers on Radio Helsinki with Nick Triani

Coma says on The Sugarrush website that he will be Nick Triani's guest on 8 1/2 on thursday 21st of april. He will be playing his favourite songs and also live songs by himself. Another guest will be Ben's Diapers. So looks like an excellent set up for listening pleasure when you add the fact that Nick is a great radio dj and his show is well worth listening to even if there are no guests. And remember that you don't really need to live in the Helsinki area to be able to hear the show. There is a webcast available. So tune in 7 pm tomorrow and every thursday after that.

Radio Helsinki Website


Two new Marian valinta songs available at mikseri.net. Great stuff as always.

Marian valinta at mikseri.net



APRIL 16, 2005

ultrasport

Their marvellous debut album is now available for preorder at darla.com. And the price is very reasonable ($12.60). So if you have a credit card there really is no reason to wait any longer. It's about time to get this five heart album. Your record shelf will feel abandoned and lonely if you don't treat it with such perfect albums. And the album really is perfect. Also new swedish mailorder Fraction Discs sells the album. If you still don't know ultrasport, you can open your blind eyes by listening to four songs from the album on their website.



ultrasport website
Darla website
Fraction Discs website



APRIL 13, 2005

Ultramariini

Ultramariini's second album titled Kevään ja kesän tähtikuvioita was released today on 13th of april. It is one of those bands that probably should be listed on this website as well. They seem to have created a good fanbase already. At least they've gotten good audiences here in Jyväskylä and people knew them right after the release of the debut album.


Ultramariini on tour:

13.4. Hämeenlinna, Metropol
21.4. Oulu, 45 Special
22.4. Utajärvi, Mesta
23.4. Jyväskylä, Lutakko
24.4. Tammela
27.4. Tampere, Klubi
28.4. Turku, Klubi
5.5. Joensuu, Be Pop
6.5. Lahti, Torvi
7.5. Outokumpu
11.5. Helsinki, Tavastia
14.5. Kuopio, Henry's Pub
9.6. Helsinki, Senaatintori

Ultramariini Website


Beacon St. Radiants

A new interesting pop band from Turku. Influenced by Wilco, Neil Young, Lemonheads etc. Some early songs on their website. I like those too, but even better ones have been recorded. Or at least that is what people told me.

Beacon St. Radiants Website

Red Carpet

New Red Carpet info that I have not mentioned. They have a 7" vinyl single coming out in may and an album will follow in september. Both will be released by If Society. There's also excellent new song available on their website. So go and listen the rough mix of the song called 'Home'.



Red Carpet Website
If Society Website

APRIL 8, 2005

Roger® & Boys Of Scandinavia

Roger vs Boys Of Scandinavia 7" split single will be released in april by Mate Recordings. Roger is that cool electro pop project by Teemu Metsälä. In his own words "Roger combine electro-funk and italodisco with 80's sparse indie guitar songwriting....strongly influenced by dance music but not being pure dance music itself". Boys Of Scandinavia on the other hand are producer Juhana Lahtinen and Roger's Teemu Metsälä with Flannelmouth's Tuomo Kuusi as the vocalist. People have compared them to The Smiths for example. For more information about the split single and soundclips visit the release page at Mate Recordings website.

Roger® Website
Mate Recording Website
Release page at Mate Recordings

APRIL 6, 2005

Boomhauer

The second Boomhauer album 'Me Think Ok' was released today on 6th of april by Stupido Records. So expect another album full of their excellent mixture of garage rock, wild country punk and clever pop moments. I'm already thrilled because there should be even more of those perfect pop moments and everyone knows that Saku really has a wonderful pop sense. And yes. I do love those rock tunes as well. Boomhauer is of course amazing live band, so go and see them perform. It will be fun. I guarantee that. They also seem to be playing in Tokyo, Japan on 14th of may with 69 Eyes, Tigerbombs and Deep Insight. Which is nice. Really nice. And there's two full songs available for download on their website.

Boomhauer Website
Stupido Website

Sweatmaster

I know. Sweatmaster is not pop music. But it is damn good music, so I guess it's alright to mention that their new album Tom Tom Bullet was also released on 6th of april by danish Bad Afro Records. And hopefully they don't send a contract killer after me (ok, I just watched a Kaurismäki movie before updating), because I mentioned their name on a pop website. Anyway. The band is just bloody fantastic. Even a pop freak sometimes needs a bit of dirty rock'n'roll. And these guys provide the finest garage rock there is. Listen to 'Dirty Rabbit on their website.

Sweatmaster Website
Bad Afro Records Website

The Smiths seminar in Helsinki, Finland..

Will be held at Kasarmikatu 40 on 14th of may 2005. The night will end with a party and concert where finnish The Joneses will cover The Smiths songs. Read more about it at chorus.tk.

Chorus Website



MARCH 24, 2005

Ben's Diapers and Cartoon Tree to IPO Festival, Liverpool

Ben's Diapers and Cartoon Tree will play at International Pop Overthrow guitar pop festival, which will be held at Liverpool, UK in may 26th-30th. It's a huge powerpop oriented festival with dozens of great pop bands. Ben's Diapers played at IPO festival in LA, USA back in 1999. Then they had the chance to play at the legendary Troubadour and this time Ben's Diapers and Cartoon Tree will play a gig at The Cavern Club. So the boys surely have something to look forward to. Good luck and spread the gospel of great finnish pop music.

International Pop Overthrow Website
Ben's Diapers Website
Cartoon Tree Website

Ben's Diapers photo: Sami Alamiekkaoja

All Stars

A correction to yesterdays news. Some lousy finnish pop site may have told you that the new All Stars album is already out and available. But don't believe everything you read, because that is not the case. There has been some sort of delay and the record will probably come out sometime in late april. My apologies for the wrong information I gave.

Kevin and It's a Trap

It's a Trap is website that is devoted to the promotion of Scandinavian music. A really good website with plenty of news every day. I wish I could keep up the same updating frequency. So be sure to bookmark it. Recently they've added a 20 question section and the first victim was our beloved Kevin. That fine article by Marc Xavier Leblanc is now up on the site. Go and read. And if you still haven't seen Kevin's excellent music video that was also shown at this year's Sundance film festival at Utah, USA, it's about time to go and watch it. It's available at Kevin's Website.

Kevin Website
It's A Trap Website
Direct link to that 20 Questions article

Photo by Kira Gluschkoff

MARCH 23, 2005

Viola

New album 'Melancholydisco' was released today by If Society. It contains four new Viola songs, six remixes of songs that appeared on their marvellous debut album 'Tearcandy' and one music video. So it's fourth Viola release within a year. Can't blame them for being lazy. And good album too, albeit I'm not that excited about the remixes. I've never really liked those. All the remixes are well done and made by some very gifted people. I just still prefer the originals. Especially in this case, when the originals are still living in my veins, giving me sudden bursts of happiness when stress or some other form of anxiety is trying to get control of my thoughts. And there's of course those four new songs that make purchasing worthwhile, even if you are not a big fan of remixes either. The price is also very reasonable. 8e from If Society and around 10e in the recordshops.

Viola Website
If Society Website

Band photo: Nauska

(addition: they just put the opening track 'Sad Eyed Disco Dancers' to their website. Go and check it out. Click me)

All Stars

(addition: Sorry, yours truly was too hasty. There was a delay and the album will came out probably sometime mid/late april) The second All Stars album Older! Slower! Softer was released on 22nd of march by American Brothers. Looking forward to hearing it, because if it is slower and especially softer than it might be just my kind of album. And both songs on that promo single were indeed excellent. I think I should be slightly worried about their Scorpions obsession though (perhaps because Scorpions was once a huge favourite of mine when I was about 12 or something). But if I remember correctly I have heard Meine Love Song live and it was a really good song. Anyway, be prepared for sweet, honest and emotional pop music. I have a feeling that this will turn out to be a really good album.

All Stars Website
American Brothers Website


MARCH 22, 2005

Jyrock 2005 Festival -20th Anniversary 14.04-17.04.2005

The oldest indoor-festival in Finland has announced this year's program. It looks quite good indeed. For example swedish Suburban Kids With Biblical Names is something that I will really look forward to. Swedish Dungen is another really interesting one. It might not be exactly my cup of tea, but we'll see. Dungen has been praised in so many places. For example Not Lame's Bruce Brodeen chose Dungen's 'Ta Det Lugnt' as his album of the year 2004. Pitchfork gave it rating 9.3 etc. Then of course there is great finnish acts like Pocket Knife (yee!!), Sweatmaster, Sergio, Tigerbombs, Jimi Tenor, Low Life Rock´n´Roll Philosophers, Regina, Joose Keskitalo and plenty of others. The venue is of course Ilokivi here in Jyväskylä. Check out the full scedule on the festival's website.

Jyrock Website


MARCH 19, 2005

ultrasport

Today we love ultrasport and japanese Quince Records who released ultrasport's debut album called 'Nothing Can Go Wrong'. After three excellent self-released EPs, it really is wonderful to get a full-lenght album. If your soul is still wandering in the darkness, you can open your blind eyes by writing www.ultrasport.org into your navigation toolbar and listen some of their songs there. It is well worth it, because the band is wonderful and this will be an amazing album. I don't know the distribution details. But at least that lovely canadian Pop Polar is selling some Quince releases so hopefully they'll take this one too. But follow the ultrasport website. I'm sure the boys will give some info about the distribution later on. Darn cute indiepop. If you hang around at places like indiepages and think small, ultrasport is your new favourite band. Well actually then you might already be a fan, because even the EPs have gotten a great reviews from Chris and Martijn. And now try to find a way to buy a copy. If your really impatient, you can just book a plane ticket to japan and go and buy the record from there. You'll even see a lovely country while you are at it. Unless you just stay in the hotel room and listen the album over and over again..

ultrasport website
Quince Records Website

Band photo: Virpi Stjerna


MARCH 11, 2005

The Sugarrush

Finally. New material from The Sugarrush. It's a five song ep titled 'Useless Information' and it is released by new label Kinkt records today 11th of march. And that is also one perfect start for a label. I love Kinkt Records already. And I will love you too, if you buy this. It's power pop for the masses. Well I guess those masses don't know them..yet. Basicly just meant that eventhough the boys know all the legendary powerpop bands, I don't think their goal is to be that small sympathic indie band that some geeks like me adore. And probably completely destroyed their indie credibility by being Firevision's backing band in the finnish eurovision song contest final. But it is just refreshing that some band can take all the influences we love, those vocal harmonies, power chords, pop melodies and still sound (and look) like a band that you could throw in MTV's prime time. A really wonderful band and it's also a whole lot of fun to listen them at home or in a concert. One just can't feel bad while listening to them. I will always find it difficult to write about them. How to be objective, when you are writing about a band that you love with all your heart and that has a guaranteed spot in your top 3 most influential and important bands ever list. But I guess being objective has never been my main goal. There are enough of those real music sites/magazines that are based on knowledge, so I can just focus on subjective writings about bands and music that have laid a claim to my heart. I know I can't make much of a difference, but the reason why I started this years ago, was to make bands like The Sugarrush and Bridget better known, because I had totally fallen in love with them. There wouldn't be onechord.net without them. But did I lose the point again. I guess that point is that new The Sugarrush EP is now out and available. If you like joyful, catchy power pop, I guarantee you'll love them. So c'mon salute the boys. You know it's the only choice. It will make you smile, cops busy trying to stop those streefgolfers and neighbours angry when you keep jumping around your apartment. 3-4 euros is a small price for all that. And if you don't believe me, go to the label's website and listen the title track of the EP.

The Sugarrush Website
Kinkt Records Website


MARCH 10, 2005

All Stars

The second All Stars album Older! Slower! Softer! is coming out on 22nd of march. If you are fan, you can already buy a two song promosingle from their site (obviously you will buy the album even if you are not a fan). I really like the single. Both songs are really good and I'm waiting eagerly for the album. And that Winona song by Arttu indeed is a great one. A part of the reason might be that Winona just looked way too good in Reality Bites. Oh well. It would be a perfect pop song even if it wasn't about Winona.

All Stars Website


Starflower

Yeah. Finally one can also buy some Starflower material. The songs on The Capo Songs -EP are the ones you might have heard me praising. So nothing totally new, but great that the songs are now available also as cdr-ep...because the songs are just too damn good to be missed. Especially 'Leaving' is just amazing. You can buy the ep + t-shirts + badges from their website.

Starflower Website

The Scaramangas

New The Scaramangas cd-single 'Eight and A Half' is also now out there for you to enjoy. An album called 'All Is Good Now' will follow later.

The Scaramangas Website




Mummypowder

We all know that Mummypowder is a great band and the ones who have been watching MTV might have also seen this great music video 'Don't Hold Your Breath'. But I hadn't seen it before, so it was nice to notice that it now is available on their website. Go and watch it.

Mummypowder Website



ultrasport

Well more about this later, but I had to already put this to the news section as well.. because this is like the paras juttu ikinä. Japanese Quince records will release ultrasport's debut full-lenght on 19th of march. That's cooler than cool and I'm quite sure that ultrasport will win the band of the year poll at twee.net when the next december comes. It will be so great. Listen samples at ultrasport.org.

ultrasport website
Quince Records Website

The Sugarrush

The Sugarrush. New EP called Useless Information. It's out tomorrow..It's out on friday. More then. Meanwhile listen the title track on the label's website. I surely have done that. Probably around 300 times. You know. It's The Sugarrush. A band that I truly love. A huge reason that this site exists. Bridget and The Sugarrush have been the bands that make me drag my ass to another town to see them live. Clubs will kipinöidä, cops will get busy. The Sugarrush is back in town. I don't make much sense. I'm too excited. But it's been too long. Way too long. But now finally. New material. But as I said. More tomorrow night. and the next night. and the next. and the next.

The Sugarrush Website
Kinkt Records



FEBRUARY 23, 2005

Liekki

Liekki's third album 'Rajan piirsin taa' was released today by Universal. Listen samples on their website and then go to record store. Or just buy without listening it beforehand. It can't be bad. At least if you don't compare it to Karkkiautomaatti. And that would be only because karkkis is/was above.. almost everything.



Liekki Website

FEBRUARY 4, 2005

Liekki

New Liekki single 'Veljet' was released on 2nd of february by Universal. New album will follow on 23rd of february. Their website now contains a jukebox where you can listen 60 second samples of five album tracks.




Liekki Website


FEBRUARY 2, 2005

The Tunes

I've been waiting this one eagerly since Pekka Laine played some songs from their demo in Kitarama long time ago. It sounded amazing back then and it still sounds totally amazing. The Tunes frontman is american Rikki London and his partners in crime are three finnish pop heroes: Knipi (Egotrippi, Krispies), Markus Nordenstreng (Latebirds) and Heikki Tikka (Krispies, Mummypowder). So you can expect quite a pop heaven from those guys and I'm sure that is what we'll get. Beautiful powerpop melodies, Byrds, 60's west coast. From newer groups something like Cosmic Rough Riders, Pernice Brothers or Thorns perhaps isn't million miles away. I've only heard about half of it, but I'm in love with this already. This should be a top seller at places like Not Lame and Parasol. Please someone make sure that everyone hears The Tunes. I'm sure all those power pop geeks would love this everywhere. If you are one of those..and even if you are not..go to their labels site that contains two sunny pop treats from the album in mp3 format. Then go and buy the album. The debut album by The Tunes titled 'Bright Yellow Sun" will released today 2nd of february by Grandpop records. I just hope our local record stores here in Jyväskylä already have it in stock today. I know I will rush into the record store when I wake up (again writing this around 3 am).

Grandpop Records Website
The Tunes Website (coming soon)

JANUARY 26, 2005

Ben's Diapers

Third album titled 'Little Pilgrims' by Ben's Diapers will be co-released on 27th of january by Plastic Passion and Rhythm Barrel records. The band also has a new website where you can listen the opener 'Road Songs' from the album. If you are into guitar pop, you'll need this one.



New Ben's Diapers Website
Rhythm Barrel Website
Plastic Passion Website


Jadecroon

Jadecroon's 'Silence Manitou' -ep is also released on 27th of january. This Tampere-based guitar pop group seem to have nailed it this time. There are long samples from all the four songs on their new website and all of them sound really great to me. Weezer-influences still hit the surface a few times. But it is Jadecroon what counts. And I'm really into this after listening to those samples for a (long) while.

New Jadecroon Website


The Sugarrush

A new ep on its way. I'm not sure will it be out in time for the event below. But I can still pretty much say that whenever it will be out, it will be worth buying. I've bought six or seven copies of their debut album, I've seen them play live plenty of times eventhough they've played only once in Jyväskylä I think. The Sugarrush or Bridget concerts are the ones that often make me carry my lazy ass to a train. So it's safe to say that The Sugarrush has been among "my TOP 3 finnish bands" since I heard the debut. And you may already get prepared to read a lot of The Sugarrush praises in the coming weeks.

The Sugarrush Website


Ben's Diapers, The Sugarrush & Jadecroon record release partees.

Those bands above have joined forces for two concerts this week. And that is absolutely great. I really have no intention to miss out when three of my favourite bands are basicly having a joined record release party. So Turku here I come. The events are below. Don't miss these. It just doesn't get any better than this in Finland if you are a fan of guitar pop.

27.01 Super Thursday: The Sugarrush, Ben's Diapers, Jadecroon -Yo.talo, Tampere
28.01 Flavour Of The Month: The Sugarrush, Ben's Diapers, Jadecroon -Pikku-Torre, Turku

The Rollstons

I've been meaning to mention this for a while. The Rollstons site now contains plenty of full songs in mp3 format. For example you can download their whole first recording, Christmas -ep that they made for their friends back in year 2000. It contains early versions of 'Translate the Change' and 'Weekdays Are Schooldays, Weekend Are Mine' and some other tunes you probably have not heard before.


The Rollstons Website


The Props

When this have been mainly a guitar/power pop newsflash, I might finally do something that I should have done a long time ago. To notify that The Props seems rather good. They don't completely blow my head off.. at least yet.. but their EP titled Blushingly Yours that came out in last months of 2004 is a good one. And any band that is influenced by Weezer, Teenage Fanclub and Fountains of Wayne is definitely something that interests me. The band website even says that their guitarist is a number one Teenage Fanclub fan in Finland. Well I don't know is it possible to be a bigger TFC fan than Huuki (from Cartoon Tree and Ben's Diapers) but it is nice anyway. There's one song from the ep on their website. So check out that one to see if The Props can hit your faster than a sniper's bullet.

The Props Website


JANUARY 10, 2005

End of the year lists

Onechord's choices for the best albums and songs of the year

(=albums and songs that I love)

DECEMBER 29, 2004

Flannelmouth

Flannelmouth's really good debut album Rain Inside was released by Grid Records just before christmas and it is now in stores. Check out the sample on the label's website.





Flannelmouth Website
Grid Records Website




DECEMBER 5, 2004

Viola

Viola's christmas 7" 'Leaving Home On Christmas Eve' / 'Lost Christmas' was released on 1st of december. They also have a christmas calendar on their website, so check that out each day. And because yours truly have updated the page so rarely, I don't think I have yet mentioned that Viola's music video 'Violentia' can be downloaded from the if society website (some other cool videos too, Echo Is Your Love etc).

Viola Website
If Society Website
Viola concert photos from Jyväskylä


NOVEMBER 21, 2004

Ylivieska guitar army

Well that flyer on the left already says pretty much everything. I don't normally but these gigs here but this looked liked worth mentioning because there has not been enough of talk about these bands. I'm still wondering why on earth I haven't put Ethel Suspense to the band section. They should be there and this should be an excellent guitar pop evening.

Cartoon Tree Website
Ethel Suspense Website


+ other groups that are connected to ylivieska guitar army:

Jadecroon Website
Pablo Heraldez Website


NOVEMBER 14, 2004

The second album (or mini-album or double ep) Tähtiöitä by Wojciech was released on 12th of november by Plastic Passion. 9 new songs including cover version of Katri Helena's Syysunelma. It should be a great album and the price is only 10 euros. So what are you waiting for..



Wojciech Website
Plastic Passion Website

NOVEMBER 7, 2004

Viola & Iconcrash

I'm a bit late with this news entry because this split ep by Viola and Iconcrash was released on 3rd of november. Anyway, There's one original song by both of them and then they've made a cover versions of each other's song. Co-released by If Society and Futurecords. You can find clips from all the songs on the artist websites. A lovely release definitely. I do like Iconcrash too although it's not that close to my taste. And Viola. Well you know how much I love the debut Tearcandy. Sister Flo and Trembling Blue Stars are the only ones who have been able to rise to the same level in my heart this year. And I've never bought so many albums then I have recently.

There's also a christmas single coming up from Viola and both of the bands are now touring together. Check out the tour dates from the artists pages to be 100% sure where and when they are playing.

Viola Website
Iconcrash Website
If Society Website
Futurecords Website

Marian Valinta

Some new songs by Marian valinta now available at mikseri.net. Again so tender and almost as beautiful as your girlfriend's eyes. Acoustic softness to all the romantics. A new Marian valinta would be a very welcome release, because I really love Ilja's songs. Especially Kaunein unesi is just pure magic (well that's an old song actually). Marian valinta is also playing with Puumaja at Vakiopaine, Jyväskylä on 20th of november.

Marian valinta at mikseri
Puumaja Website


OCTOBER 30, 2004

Harry Hunks

New Harry Hunks ep Revolutions From Pink to Pale was released on 29th of october by Marsu on Paras. It includes 5 marvellous new songs from one of Finland's finest indie pop bands. They've also redesigned their website. So check out the new wonderful webhome where you will find two songs from the ep in mp3 format.

Harry Hunks Live:

05.11 Harry Hunks, Puumaja -Turku, Pikku-Torre (Flavour of the Month -club)
06.11 Harry Hunks, The Rollstons, ultrasport Helsinki, Semifinal (Club Limousine)
26.11 Harry Hunks, Lodger -Tampere, Telakka

Harry Hunks Website
Marsu on paras Website


The Phonies

The debut album titled Instant Elation by The Phonies will be released today. The release party will be held tonight at bar westcoast, Kokkola. If you haven't yet realised it, The Phonies include members from The Refreshments and Mental Market. So it might be a debut for The Phonies, but just like Cheerleaders United, these guys have been making great music for ages. I haven't heard the album yet, but those two EPs and one live performance already got me convinced that they are still making wonderful music. So you can expect great rock songs with pop melodies, totally disturbing lyrics and Tom Stenman's stunning vocals.

The Phonies Website

OCTOBER 27, 2004

Cheerleaders United

Debut album Heartbreak Satellites by Cheerleaders United now out and available. Released by Plastic Passion. Heartbreak Satellites might be a debut, but these guys from Kouvola have been making the finest quality pop music for years. Going Public, Timo Ranta's earlier band made some great pop records in the 90's. If you liked those records, you probably love this. Because this is even better. Wonderful melodramatic guitar pop. A bit of 60's britpop, a bit of 80's Australia and a small doze of Walkabouts.

Cheerleaders United Website
Plastic Passion Website

OCTOBER 6, 2004

Office Building

Office Building's fourth full-lenght album Violent Heart is now out and available. Released by Aisti Records. Like mentioned before, you can listen all the songs on this mini-site and Janne Laurila will promote the album by playing small solo sets in record shops during the week.



06.10 Airon Musiikki, Jyväskylä (16.00)
07.10 Stupido Shop, Helsinki (18.00)
07.10 As a guest on 8 1/2, Radio Helsinki (19.00 - 21.00) (there's a webcast available, so you don't need to live in Helsinki to hear it)
08.10 Kane Records, Turku (17.00)
09.10. Platta, Tampere (12.30)

Office Building Website
Violent Heart Mini-site
Aisti Records Website


OCTOBER 4, 2004

Getawaycab

Getawaycab have released their first ep titled Sleep Forever. It's a young band that plays emo-indie rock. So if you are into that kind of music, it's worth checking out. Two songs from the ep are available at mikseri.net.



Getawaycab Website
Getawaycab at Mikseri


OCTOBER 1, 2004

Kevin

Kevin's debut album We Come In Peace released today by Gashopper Promotions. The release party will be held at Dubrovnik, Helsinki on saturday 9th of october. But the band is already on tour, so no need to wait until that.




The tour dates are:

1.10 at Päiväkoti, Turku (with Blue Star)
2.10 at Lutakko, Jyväskylä (with Ultramariini, Blue Star)
5.10 at Henry's Pub, Kuopio (with Slideshaker)
6.10 at 45 Special, Oulu (with Slideshaker)
9.10 record release party at Dubrovnik, Helsinki (with Slideshaker)
21.10 at Yo-talo, Tampere (with Slideshaker)

Kevin Website
Gashopper Promotions Website

Office Building

Office Building's new album will hit the store on 6th of october. Their label Aisti Records have set up a mini-site for the album and you can listen the whole excellent Violent Heart album there in advance. But you do need Flash plugin.

Office Building frontman Janne Laurila will also go to a promotion tour where he plays small solo sets at record shops and other places + also appears as Nick Triani's guest on Radio Helsinki.

So far confirmed dates below. Please check out Office Building's website for more. It might be that I don't notice to add them all here once they are confirmed.

06.10 Airon Musiikki, Jyväskylä (16.00)
07.10 Stupido Shop, Helsinki (18.00)
07.10 As a guest on 8 1/2, Radio Helsinki (19.00 - 21.00)
08.10 Kane Records, Turku (17.00)
09.10. Platta, Tampere (12.30)

Office Building Website
Violent Heart Mini-site
Aisti Records Website

Office Building photo by Jukka Salminen

SEPTEMBER 24, 2004

Le Futur Pompiste

Your Stories And Your Thoughts, the debut album by Le Futur Pompiste will be released today by spanish indie label Siesta Records. I'm not sure can you get it anywhere yet (except directly from Siesta), but the band site says that in the near future you can buy it directly from them or from Stupido shop. Really looking forward to hearing it, because the album might be one perfect pop heaven. At least my expectations are really high based on the earlier songs. They do seem to have the skill and talent to create some of the finest pop music on these shores. Hopefully people abroad will notice that too, because of the Siesta connection. And I'm pretty confident that they will notice and Le Futur Pompiste will easily win the hearts of the pop kids in the small indie circles all around. Actually I think I should be more worried about Finland itself. It would be a huge shame, if wonderful music like this don't get the attention it deserves here. Ok. I haven't even heard it yet, so I better not praise more..yet.

There are sound samples on Siesta's website, but those didn't want to work when i tried them. Oh! and the cover was designed by El Graphic. Oh again! don't forget Poppikerho at Klubi Tampere on 13th of October. Le Futur Pompiste are there sharing a stage with Wojciech and The Rollstons. So should be one perfect evening at Poppikerho, which still does sound like the best thing ever.

Le Futur Pompiste Website
Siesta's infopage about the album
El Graphic Website
Poppikerho Website (there's also a Le Futur Pompiste interview)

SEPTEMBER 23, 2004

Kevin

The release date of Kevin's debut album We Come In Peace is still couple of weeks away (due out on 1st of october), but there's already possible to hear the album in a party at galleria myymälä2, Helsinki on friday 24th of september starting at 19.00. Free entry + dj's Hank & Särmä. The actual release party will be held at Dubrovnik, Helsinki on the 9th of october. But more about that and the album when it's officially out and available.

Kevin Website
Gashopper Website (their label)


SEPTEMBER 17, 2004


Treeball & Mummypowder hit the road with Aaron Booth

The International Pop Exchange split ep that featured finnish Treeball and canadian singer- songwriter Aaron Booth is now officially out (you'll find the older news entry about that one if you browse down this page). Next week Treeball and their colleagues Mummypowder will play three shows in Finland with this really good canadian tunesmith. Later in the year, Treeball will also tour in Canada with Aaron. The dates here in Finland are as follows:

22.09 Treeball, Mummypowder, Aaron Booth (canada) -Semifinal, Helsinki
23.09 Treeball, Mummypowder, Aaron Booth (canada) -Telakka, Tampere
24.09 Treeball, Mummypowder, Aaron Booth (canada) -Pikku-Torre, Turku

Treeball website
Aaron Booth Website
Mummypowder Website

Jukka Takalo

New single titled Yks Tarja from Jukka Takalo is out and available now. Album will follow in the beginning of 2005. Released by Poko Records

Jukka Takalo Website
Poko Records Website



SEPTEMBER 15, 2004

Sister Flo

Sister Flo's new album Tragician's Hat finally came out today. Needless to say that the album is marvellous and one of the finest releases of the year. I think I already promised to buy a copy for all my friends if I happen to win in Vakioveikkaus. A review will be on the site hopefully within a couple of days and it probably isn't very hard to guess how many "hearts" it will get. Tragician's Hat was released by Delphic Recordings.

Sister Flo Website


Office Building

Another new release for the day is a single Burn In The Speed by Office Building. It's taken from the upcoming album Violent Heart which will hit your heart on 6th of october. I haven't heard the single yet, because these ryynikylä's record stores didn't have it today. But a guess it's still safe to say that it will be a great just like everything else they've ever released. The single and the forthcoming album are both released by Aisti Records

Office Building Website
Aisti Records Website


SEPTEMBER 2, 2004

Lemonator

A new Lemonator compilation titled Yesterday Was Good was released on 1st of september. A great way to get to know one of the all-time best finnish pop bands, if you for some weird reason don't love them yet. There's also two previously unreleased songs, remake (We Go) Round and that All Saints cover Black Coffee. So a few small treats also for those who have all the albums.


Lemonator Website


AUGUST 20, 2004

Tink

Tink's third ep, Season Finale is now out and available. It also concludes the trilogy of these little discs that start with a letter "s". Just like the previous two, also Season Finale is really wonderful. I would say it's even the best one as whole, but I probably need to wait until I've heard it in a state when my body temperature is below 38 degrees. Anyway, the songs are bit faster and bigger, but the overall mood is still very beautiful. Lovely cover, lovely pop songs. How could anyone who has a heart, not love this. Information about how to get it available on Tink's website.

Tink Website



AUGUST 11, 2004

The Rollstons

Taping Trees, The second album by The Rollstons was released today. You may check out a track called Vitamin D on Stupido's website (their label) before stopping your daily routines for a second and rushing to the record store to buy a copy. Then you'll have a perfect soundtrack for the opening weekend of the premier league.


The Rollstons Website
I'd Never Dance For The Man -The Rollstons Fansite
Stupido Website

AUGUST 1, 2004

Treeball

A new Treeball release is a split ep with canadian singer-songwriter Aaron Booth. It's officially released in september, but it's already available for ordering in the wonderworld of the internet. The release is a part of an Intercontinental Pop Exchange, which is a series of split cdep's from the excellent canadian Endearing Records (which have for example released one of the finest albums of the year, The Night and I Are Still Young by The Heavy Blinkers). The EP contains four songs from both of the artists. Treeball's part contains two oldies and two previously unreleased songs (Blue and Friday Night).

Treeball website
Aaron Booth Website
Intercontinental Pop Exchange Website
Endearing Records Website

and don't forget that very important poppikerho "news flash" below.

AUGUST 1, 2004

Poppikerho

A new club called Poppikerho seems like something that every city needs. The lucky city with active people is Tampere and the event takes place at Klubi on wednesdays. About once in a month. Below you can see the schedule for this fall and it really couldn't get much better than that. Some of the finest finnish bands are there. Please do support the club by going there, so the lovely people (not that I know them personally, but if they have music taste like that and are doing something like this, they have to be extremely lovely) behind it will have the money and motivation to continue organizing it for a long time. Their website is also now up and running. So go there for more information.

August 25
Sister Flo
Tv-resistori

October 13
Le Futur Pompiste
Rollstons
Wojciech

December 1
Cessna
Viola

Poppikerho Website


JULY 27, 2004

Ronald Reagan Memorial Thriathlon 06.08.2004

American Brothers will organise a rock thriathlon on august 6th. Afterparty will be held at Stella Star. On stage are Showtime, Kevin and ultrasport. Sounds like blast. Let's hope the physical state of our dear musicians and music fans is good enough, so they can attend to the after party and don't need a week of intensive care after the thriathlon itself. Follow the links to find more information about the event.

American Brothers Website
Press release in Finnish
Join the Thriathlon

JULY 18, 2004

Flannelmouth's excellent vinyl single (What a) Comeback / Bravado is now officially released by Grid records. Album will follow later in the year. Read more about the single in the review section.




Flannelmouth Website
Grid Records Website


JULY 5, 2004

Sister Flo

Sister Flo's new Proper Kites EP was released on 30th of june by Delphic. A stunning release again. Fragile, beautifully arranged innovative pop music. I would like to buy about 50 copies and give them to everyone I care for. A full length album will follow later in the year. There's a small review full of praises available in the review section, if this news entry didn't convince you.


Sister Flo Website


JUNE 30, 2004

Puny

Puny's debut album titled Small Scale was released by Aisti Records on 30th of june. The boys certainly did not have a huge rush with the recordings, but the good thing is that the album is finally here and it was well worth the wait (and no, I don't mind waiting, plus when you start recording an album it's always better to make it with care and love and not just quickly release something you end up hating two months after the release). Oh..and the album is definitely really good. If you don't take my word for it, you may check out a track called Moment of Clarity on their website (or on the label's site) before starting to harrash your local record dealer and forcing him to carry the album, if he/she don't already have it in stock.

Puny Website
Aisti Records Website


JUNE 21, 2004

TV-Resistori, Risto and Fonal Records

TV-Resistori's long-waited debut album Intiaanidisko was released today by Fonal Records. A true "must have" album to all you indie geeks out there. I don't have it yet, but how could it not be totally irresistable and charming.

Another great addition to Fonal's impressive catalog, is Risto's debut album. Also released today.

Release party for both albums will be held on wednesday 23rd of june at Päiväkoti, Turku. The lineup is TV-Resistori, Risto and Pasianssi. So must be a wonderful evening.

TV-Resistori Website
Intiaanidisko info page (inc. title track in mp3 format)

Risto Website?

Fonal Records Website (inc. song "Nina, olen palasina" from Risto's album in mp3 format)


JUNE 17, 2004

Accelerator -The Big One

I would have hoped that early rumours about Wilco and Shins, would have turned out to be facts, but there's still plenty to see at Tavastia/Semifinal on july 9th.

The Von Bondies (us)
The Fiery Furnaces (us)
Electrelane (uk)
Sister Flo (fin)
Husky Rescue (fin)
Branded Women (fin)

So looks like a great event.

(Sister Flon ylivoima voi kyllä viedä mielenkiinnon...tätä ei ollut tarkoituskaan ymmärtää jos ei lue ff:ää, tsori. kaikki paikalle, mahtava ilta tulossa!)


JUNE 15, 2004

Cartoon Tree

Cartoon Tree is getting more active. They recorded a new 9 song CD titled Songs From Northern Finland (nice title btw, not that surprising considering how much they love a certain band) by themselves and it is now ready and available. Expect to hear some great guitar pop with lots of vocal harmonies. Cartoon Tree probably feel that vocal harmonies is the most important part in music and I'm totally on their side on that one. Kind of promising that the whole new line-up have that word "vocals" after their name in the line-up. And even before the other instrument. So that's like four guys singing their hearts out. What could be better than that (well ok, four girls singing..heh).

Anyway. Welcome back boys. We've missed you so much. Cartoon Tree is such a great band. Plus on a personal level it was one of the first pop bands that I fell in love with back then in 1998/1999. The original Popatak trio Cartoon Tree, The Sugarrush and Ben's Diapers meant a lot to this boy at the time (well they still do) and are at least partly to blame that I once lost my heart to finnish pop music and started making this website.

Check out the new Cartoon Tree website for more info. There are full mp3 songs from Songs From Northern Finland. And also a very nice and sunny "Girl on the Beach" music video..

Cartoon Tree: Songs From Northern Finland (2004)

Tracklist:
Around / Girl on the beach / Not Together / My Girl /
Lost Love / I Don't Why I Hate Christmas / Ballad Of... /
Stay With me / Melody #1


New Cartoon Tree Website


JUNE 3, 2004

Penniless

A new Penniless EP Story Of A Punk now out and available. Title track taken from the excellent latest album All Good Things Come To Those Who Wait. It also contains three new songs, so it well worth getting even if you own the album. Released by swedish label A West Side Fabrication.



Penniless Website


JUNE 2, 2004

TV-Resistori

Debut album Intiaanidisko will be released on 21st of june. Now you can already check out the title track of the album. Song available in mp3 format on the album's "info page". Address below.

Info about Intiaanidisko
TV-Resistori Website
Fonal Records Website


MAY 28, 2004

Hundred Million Martians

The third Hundred Million Martians album Solid Rock Planet was released today by Plastic Passion. The release party will be held today at TVO, Turku. Other bands on stage are Vanity Ink and Bulldoser

Hundred Million Martians Website
Plastic Passion Website



MAY 19, 2004

Puny & TV-Resistori

Happy happy joy joy! Finally these two lovely groups have finished the recordings of their debut albums. Occasionally it seemed that we'll never get to hear these albums, but apparently good things indeed come to those who wait.

TV-Resistori's debut titled Intiaanidisko is currently scheduled to be released on 21st of june by Fonal Records. Also Risto's debut should be released on the same day by the same wonderful label. The title track of TV-Resistori's debut should be available for you to listen already on june 1st on Fonal's website.

Puny's album Small Scale will be released in june by Aisti Records. There's also a new website up and running at the moment where you can listen a full song called A Moment Of Clarity from the upcoming album.

And don't shoot me if the release dates change...

TV-Resistori Website
Fonal Records Website
Puny Website
Aisti Records Website


Mental Alaska 5 years

Yeehaw! Mental Alaska is now five years old and the celebrations will be held at Telakka, Tampere next weekend. Looks like a great event and I think I should probably go. At least everyone who lives within 50 km from Tampere, have no excuses of not going.

Saturday 22.05

Hetero Skeleton
Les Enfants Terribles (ultrasport Sami's another band)
TV-Resistori
Cosmo Jones Beat Machine

Sunday 23.05

Janne Laine
Mikael H
Viihdeimperiumi-Trio
Lemmenpyssyt
Lauhkeat lampaat

at Telakka, Tampere

Mental Alaska Website

Myne

Myne is a band that at least the emo/indierock fans need to check out. Their first demo is available in mp3 format at mikseri.net

Myne at mikseri.net

MAY 10, 2004

Viola, Cranes (uk) tour

A reminder:

11.5. Helsinki - Tavastia
12.5. Turku - Klubi
13.5. Tampere - Klubi
14.5. Jyväskylä - Lutakko

And like you know, nowadays Viola is like the best thing in the world for me. So you better go and see them. And that Cranes shouldn't be bad either, haha.

Cranes Website
Viola Website
If Society Website

MAY 7, 2004

Maryland

Second Maryland album "Almond Of Life" was released today by Universal Music (licensed by wonderful Merceedee's tuotanto who have been working with Maryland starting from the very early days). Anyway, great finnish pop music on a major label. Whoa! That's always a positive thing. I'm currently listening to this for the first time and it does sound marvellous. Hopefully they will now get the recognition they deserve.

Maryland Website
Universal Website
Merceedee's tuotanto


MAY 5, 2004

Tigerbombs

Debut album by Tigerbombs titled Loves You will be released today. Record release party will be held at Bar City, Helsinki tonight. Obviously I haven't heard the album yet, but the single was mighty excellent. So I better make some room into my heart for another passionate pop album. If april was a perfect month for a fan of finnish pop, this may doesn't look bad either. Maryland's second album will hit the stores on friday and the third album by Hundred Million Martians will follow later. Well a guess this last one ain't exactly pop, but it will be great nevertheless.

Tigerbombs Website

MAY 4, 2004

Laurel Music (swe) touring in Finland

Just a reminder. Excellent swedish group Laurel Music is touring here with some wonderful finnish bands. Dates and places are as follows:

05.05. Turku, Klubi (+ Red Carpet, Harry Hunks)
07.05. Helsinki, Semifinal (+ ultrasport)
08.05. Jyväskylä, Lutakko (+ Liekki)

on thursday (06.05) Laurel Music appears on Radio Helsinki. Like you may have guessed, they are Nick Triani's guests on 8 1/2 (17-19). Listen it on the net.

And huge thanks to Marsu On Paras for organizing the whole tour.

Laurel Music Website
Labrador's Sound library (inc. Laurel Music songs)
Radio Helsinki Website
Marsu On Paras Website

APRIL 29, 2004

Viola

Viola's wonderful debut album Tearcandy is officially released today by If Society. If you have been reading this website, you already know that I love this album (take a peak to the review section for example), so I'll leave most of the praises out from this news entry. Still want to say that it is so beautiful and emotional music that it might evoke some feelings that you didn't even know you had. A perfect album.

and don't forget the tour with the legendary Cranes (uk)

11.5. Helsinki - Tavastia with Cranes, Echo Is Your Love -
12.5. Turku - Klubi with Cranes
13.5. Tampere - Klubi with Cranes
14.5. Jyväskylä - Lutakko with Cranes

Viola Website
If Society Website



APRIL 23, 2004

Mummypowder

New Mummypowder album Consternation! Uproar out and available today. Released by Rubato Music. I don't haven't it yet, but I can promise that it is a great album. Even the early demos sounded perfect to me. So the song material is top notch and if they haven't blew it in the studio, this will be one amazing album. And I have no worries in my mind. You can always trust a mummy. That's why I promised to watch Steven Seagal's filmography through three times in a row, if the album is not a great one. And I'm not planning to do that. Consternation! Uproar! is most likely going to be one of the best albums of the year and possibly even one of the best guitar pop albums ever released in this lovely country of ours. It's been one great month if you are into finnish pop music. Mummypowder, Wojciech and Viola all releasing wonderful album within a few weeks. That's almost too much. Well I'm not complaining.

Mummypowder Website
Rubato Music Website

The Scaramangas

Another record released today is The Scaramangas' second EP Sometimes..La La La. I haven't heard this one either, but the rumour says that's it's more psychedelic then previous releases by Scaramangas. Record release party will be held at Ravintola Turkoosi, helsinki today on 23rd of april. Cats On Fire, who also have quite a new record out, will share the stage with The Scaramangas, so it should be a fine evening.

Scaramangas Website (being updated currently though)
Cats On Fire Website

APRIL 16, 2004

Wojciech

Wojciech's wonderful debut album Ystävät Toverit was released today by Plastic Passion. Like everyone expected the album is wonderful, beautiful and mellow. It didn't really hit me on the first listening, but during the past few days I've really grown to love it. So it's extremely highly recommended and the price is very friendly. Around 10 euros I think. So considering the quality and the price, I almost feel that if you don't buy it, you need to send me a note explaining the reasons behind it with your mother's signature at the bottom. It's available at least in some good record shops like Stupido, Platta, Airon musiikki etc. Of course you can also order it directly from Plastic Passion. You'll find the contact information from their site.

Plastic Passion Website


APRIL 8, 2004

Office Building & Es

New Office Building video for the single "Never Leave The Ground" is available. You can watch it on Es website. The reason why it is there, is because it was directed by Sami Sänpäkkilä. While you are there, do check out Es too. It may not be pop, but it is great music. The new perfectly titled album "Kaikkeuden kauneus ja käsittämättömyys" is now out on Fonal Records. I'm sure it's a really good album.

Es Website
Office Building Website

APRIL 7, 2004

Sister Flo

New website up with one new song in mp3 format (and it's a beautiful tune).

Sister Flo Website


APRIL 5, 2004

Laurel Music

They are not Finnish but they will play here in the beginning of may thanks to Marsu On Paras. So worth a mention here. The debut album This Night And The Next was officially released in Sweden on 31st of march. Sound samples available on Labrador's (their label) site. I don't have the album yet (I'm definitely going to buy that), but I have a 5 song sampler and that is really wonderful and adorable. Beautiful country-tinged indiepop. Also their own website just opened.. plus there's a radio interview available where they also played two songs live.

And just a reminder, Finland Tour dates

05.05 Turku, Klubi (with Bridget and Harry Hunks)
06.05 Helsinki, Radio Helsinki (interview), Triani's show. 5 pm - 7 pm
07.05 Helsinki, Semifinal (with Ultrasport)
08.05 Jyväskylä, Lutakko (with Liekki)

And don't forget that Labrador is one of the best labels ever. So there's plenty of other great things available. Like the new Tribeca album that just came out too. I think I might to need to order all the stuff they have released this year, so I'm not getting too far behind in my ultimate goal (after that usual fall in love, get married etc) to own a full Labrador catalog. First I might need to get that Vakioveikkaus or Lottery win though..

Laurel Music Website
Laurel Music songs at Labrador
Radio interview with songs at Musikjournalen


APRIL 4, 2004

Hundred Million Martians, Wojciech and Plastic Passion

New Hundred Million Martians single Stompalong Cassidy (Yeah Yeah Yeah) is now available. Full-lenght album titled Solid Rock Planet should follow in may, if the mixing etc goes without any delays. Both released by Plastic Passion.

Wojciech's debut album Ystävät Toverit will be released on 16th of april by Plastic Passion. Wojciech and Hunred Million Martians share the stage at Pikku-Torre (Turku) on 8th of april. It's Flavour Of The Month club. The rumour says that you can already buy Wojciech's album there eight days before the release date, so if you are impatient you know what to do.

Hundred Million Martians Website
Plastic Passion Website

Starflower

Is this the next big thing? Well cause this is an indie site, one should say that is this the next small thing. Anyway I ended up on their new site from Baby Sweetcorn's guestbook and I really like the songs. I've listened these three sunny pop songs repeatedly for the past two hours. Visit the nicelooking website and judge yourself.

Starflower Website

APRIL 2, 2004

Viola

Samples from the upcoming debut album Tearcandy now available on Viola's website. Sounds really promising.

Like mentioned before, the album will hit the stores on 29th of april

Viola Website

MARCH 29, 2004

Jyrock Festival 16-17.04.2004

The best thing in Jyväskylä. The annual Jyrock indoor festival is around the corner. The official website opened today. Perhaps the artist list has been more impressive sometime in the past, but there's still plenty to see. Wojciech, 22-Pistepirkko, Jose Gonzales (swe), Kuusumun Profeetta and lots of others. Jyrock is always a great event and the start of the festival season.

Jyrock Website


MARCH 25, 2004

Office Building

New single/ep titled Never Leave The Ground is out and available. I don't have it yet and still I'm already moved and touched. Even the thought of hearing new music from Office Building makes me cry..

New website is also up and running (http://www.theofficebuilding.net/). They've now made it possible tho watch the two videos "Tomorrow Again" and "The Land Of Golden Dreams" online and the site looks really nice too. So don't stay here..

Office Building Website

Cranes (uk) and Viola.

Cranes is touring in Finland with Viola in may. Cranes is a small legend for some people, so don't miss the shows. I'll remind you about the shows when they are closer. Here are the dates

11.5. Tavastia, HKI
12.5. Klubi, Turku
13.5. Klubi, Tampere
14.5. Lutakko, JKL

Viola's debut album titled Tearcandy is also now ready and just waiting for you to fall in love with it. It will be released by If Society on 29th of april.

You'll find soundsamples from both of the bands from their websites, if you're not yet familiar with them..

Cranes Website
Viola Website
If Society Website

Accelerator-club..

Starts at Tavastiaklubi on sunday 28th of march. Metric (usa) and Tiger Lou (swe) are on stage. Tickets 10 euros. Once a month from now on. Please go. This could be something like the best thing that have happened in ages. So don't spoil it by not going and drag yourself there even if it's on a sunday.

Metric Website
Tiger Lou Website
Accelerator Website



MARCH 15, 2004

Puumaja

A new addition to Han Soo Voice family is Puumaja. They have two demo songs on their website. Everyone is probably already used to the fact that you can always expect something interesting and worth listening to if it has something to do with Han Soo Voice. Puumaja is no exception. So why are you still here? Step into your childhood memories by clicking the links below:

Puumaja Website
Han Soo Voice Website

MARCH 12, 2004

Laakso in Finland

Swedish band Laakso is touring in Finland. Check out the dates and places below and listen to full songs on Laakso website.

12.03 Helsinki -Club limousine,semifinal (with Tigerbombs)
13.03 Pietarsaari -After Eight (with Cats on fire)
14.03 Vaasa -Doo-Bop Club (with Cats on fire)
15.03 Turku -Kåren (with Cats on fire)

Laakso website
Cats On Fire Website
Tigerbombs Website

Cats On Fire

New Cats On Fire 7" ep available now. Including fours songs

1. My Friend in a Comfortable Chair
2. Happiness is Chemistry
3. They Produced a Girl
4. Stars

Released by Elva Records. Available on the concerts mentioned above. If you can't get there, you'll find the ordering info from Cats On Fire website. It should also be available in some of the finest record stores within a week or two.

Cats On Fire Website
Elva Records Website

The Bullets

A new band from Vaasa. Behind the mysterious names Frankie Magnum, Eric Colt, Gunther "Fast Glove" Uzi, Johnny "Bang Bang" Baretta you'll find some members from groups like The Sugarrush, Graceskull and Leopold Delloria. Musicwise perhaps not exactly "my cup of tea", but good stuff nevertheless (so don't expect pop, you'll get good rock). Three samples from the upcoming ep, now available on The Bullets website. btw. Those mokomaki boys really know how to make goodlooking websites.

Bullets Website

Mummypowder

The release date of Mummypowder's third album 'Consternation! Uproar! have been pushed to mid-april. So we'll have to wait a while longer for that. Well all good things come to those who wait.

Mummypowder Website

MARCH 10, 2004

Marian Valinta

Three new demo songs available in the wonderworld of internet. There's just so much softness and beauty in this music. Like this new song called "Kyyhky". It may not be one of the greatest songs ever recorded, but there's so much warmness and heart in that simple song that it just made me feel so good. Plus obviously those beautiful words somehow seem to resemble the whole ideology behind my overly romantic mind. I've liked all the previous songs too, but now Ilja has really been able to touch my heart. I think I'm almost crying now. So warm & beautiful. Go and listen to them. I've listened these three new songs over ten times during this day and I love each and everyone of them. Perhaps only demos, but sometimes acoustic guitar, soft voice and well-written beautiful songs are all you need.

Marian Valinta Website
Marian Valinta songs @ Mikseri


MARCH 9, 2004

Le Futur Pompiste

Le Futur Pompiste have signed a contract with wonderful spanish indie label Siesta Records. The band will hit the studio now in march to record a full-lenght album that is scheluded to be released in the summer.




Le Futur Pompiste Website (inc. full songs in mp3 format)
Siesta Website

Penniless

Penniless Website now contains full video of the first single "Amen" from their new marvellous album. There's also five over 1 minute long audio samples from the album. Check out at least "Lifeboat" and "Circle Above My Head", because those are truly wonderful songs. Well they all are.

MARCH 4, 2004

Lodger's debut album Hi-FI High Lights Down Low is out now. It's a great band and their website is something like the best band site ever. So go there. That is an order. And if you haven't yet seen the videos. Watch them on the website. Those are like the best thing ever. Am I exaggerating? No, I think I'm not.

Lodger Website

MARCH 2, 2004


Mikael H

Debut album "Sounds Like Siberia" is now out on Powertool Records (a new zealand based label). Three about 40-45 seconds long audio samples available on label's site.

Mikael H Website
Powertool Records

Viilipytty / Trombit

Viilipytty is a radioshow that sounds very interesting. The show hosted by Matti Heikonen and Sami Suova is on air mondays (6-8 pm) and on thursdays (7 pm - 10 pm). Channel is Trombi FM. 105,5 Mhz in the Helsinki area. The rest of us can listen to it on the internet. Only in march.

On Thursdays they will have interesting guests in the show. First confirmed visitor is Astrid Swan (thursday 04.03)

I listened to parts of the first show yesterday and the music choises were pretty excellent. Whiskeytown, Smiths, Mazzy Star, Wilco, Jayhawks, Edson etc. So it definitely seems like a great show where you can hear lots of great indiepop / indierock / electronica tunes.

Trombit Website

MARCH 1, 2004


Maryland

It was announced today that the second album by Maryland titled "Almond Of Life" will be released by Universal in april/may. The new single "Dance The Night Away" have already hit the radio stadions so you may want to skip school/work and nervously wait it to be aired.

Read the whole press release in here (in finnish).

Maryland on tour:

10.03. Joensuu, Ravintola Riverside
02.04. Kuopio, Henry´s Pub
03.04. Jyväskylä, Lutakko (with Ville Leinonen & Valumo)
16.04. Tampere, Telakka
23.04. Turku, Klubi (with 22-Pistepirkko)
24.04. Tampere, Klubi (with 22-Pistepirkko)

Mummypowder

Also the new excellent mummysingle "Don't Hold Your Breath" has arrived. Album will follow on 25th of march.

Mummypowder Website

Jeeves..

has a new website. And what a nice looking website it is. I wish I could make something similar.

Jeeves Website


FEBRUARY 27, 2004

Laurel Music

Wonderful swedish band Laurel Music will tour in Finland in may. It says beautiful pop songs with country touch on Labrador's site and I must say that is very accurate. I'm really looking forward to this. Check out the dates and places below.



Laurel Music @ Labrador's site
Labrador's Sound Library (includes three Laurel Music songs + lots of other great songs)
Marsu On Paras Website

Ville Leinonen: Suudelmitar

Perhaps not pop music, but this will be one of the most beautiful and touching pieces of music released in 2004. So it deserves to be listed. New album by Ville Leinonen titled "Suudelmitar -eli balladeja metsäpoluilta ja merten rannoilta was released today by Poko Records. I've listened to it once so far. I loved every second of it.


Ville Leinonen Website (contains sound samples, but unfortunately those tiny pieces don't reveal the whole beautiness of this music.)
Poko Records Website


FEBRUARY 25, 2004


New Albums..

Treeball's new album National Treasure was released today by Stupido Records.

Record release party will be held at Bar Loose, Helsinki on the 2nd of march. The band is on stage at 8 pm, so be there on time.

A spring tour with colleagues Red Carpet and Mummypowder is planned, but the actual dates and places haven't been announced yet.

Treeball official site
Treeball @ onechord
Stupido Records


New Penniless album "All Good Things Come To Those Who Wait" was also officially released today. It's already sixth album by these tunesmiths from Nakkila. like the previous two, this one is also released by swedish label A West Side Fabrication.




Penniless Official Site
Penniless @ onechord
A West Side Fabrication

Tink..

This mysterious fellow is making us weep again with his second really beautiful and tender ep. This one is called Sad Anorak and it sounds adorable. I needed to pick up the earlier one from my record shelf as well and I've been listening to Tink quite a lot lately. This guy deserves more recognition. Check out the audio samples on his website.

Tink Website

Plastic Passion info..

Wojciech signed a record contract with Plastic Passion. The release date for their debut album "Ystävät, Toverit" have been set to 16th of april. It will most likely be a stunning debut.

New Hundred Million Martians album "Solid Rock Planet" will also be released by Plastic Passion in may 2004 and in fall we should have Cheerleaders United debut on our hands. Seems like a great year for Plastic Passion

Plastic Passion Website


The Posies..

Nothing to do with finnish pop, but there's no way I could stop from shouting this from the rooftops. The Posies have signed a contract with Ryko and have already started recording an album due to be released in late summer 2004.

Both Ken Stringfellow and Jon Auer are also working on their own solo albums. Ken's should be out in July, but there's nothing certain about the release of Jon's album. It seems to take ages to get that one out.

And last but not least. Jon and Ken are joining Alex Chilton and Jody Stephens on studio to record a new a Big Star album.

Did I just die and went to heaven? If someone doesn't already know it, I'm a huge The Posies fan and Ken and Jon must be my all-time favourite songwriters. Huh. I can hardly wait to get even one of those upcoming releases on my hands.

The Posies Fansite
Rykodisc's news about the signing
Billboards article

The New Website..

I tried, I couldn't make it. It's 6.15 am. I haven't slept a minute. Three nights in a row making this thing and it still seems that I haven't gotten far. Well it will have to do. It's a good start. There's still million things that need to be fixed. Hope you'll find this even somehow pleasing.

Here's a couple of things before I hit the sack, or throw this computer out of the window.

Is this any good?

Well it looks boring. there's hardly any graphics, but I believe it's pretty userfriendly. At least the band section seems much clearer to me.

Domain?

I didn't buy it yet, but I will, when I loose the right to use school's webspace sometime in the coming months. I'll let you know. If that one pop up advert bothers you a lot when using the address:

http://listen.to/onechord

you may also use this very easy to remember address:

http://batman.jypoly.fi/~28752/

What next?

Well to finish the job. Some descriptions are still missing, some are just bad. Release page is not ready etc

And then what?

If you want something to be added. Whether it is a gig, upcoming release or something else. Tell me about it and I'll add it.

Did this sound bitter. Well I'm not. I'm just tired. I love making this site. I love the bands. I love finnish pop music. I love you.