When and how was your band created?
We’ve had quite a few changes in line-up, so it’s a bit tricky. Originally Ville and I formed the band in late 1999. The project was put on ice for more than a year at some point, due to people moving across Finland. We dug it up again in late 2001. It was not until the end of 2003 that the current trio was formed.
Where is the name of the band coming from?
It’s an old idea of mine that somehow grew on the band. Basically it’s a statement against the results-oriented thinking currently infecting minds and causing amazing amounts of stress for the working man. The name also has an ironic, introspective air about it, so it suits the lyrics as well.
What musicians or artists did have a major influence in your life / work?
For my part, it was probably listening to Jeff Beck and Prince that actually got me playing in the first place, but my biggest influences must be Rush, Soundgarden, David Sylvian and Uriah Heep, albeit it’s still bloody hard to name just a few. All three of us enjoy music from many different genres.
What are the positive and negative aspects of being a musician in Finland?
There ain’t that many gigs to play. That’s a definite downside. Every time we have managed to land a gig, the reception has been warm. Finnish rock-audiences are always excellent.
How could you qualify your style of music?
It’s an original blend of rock with progressive elements thrown in for good measure, as I always say. We keep our songs concise and edgy.
During the years how has your musical style evolved?
When we started out, we were a lot more stoner- and metal-oriented than now. When we reformed, the metal turned into up-tempo rock. Now, most of the stoner has been washed away (though some remains) and progressive elements have been introduced. Nowadays we’re also capable to mellow out a bit. Well at least for a few minutes per gig.
How do explain these changes?
Evolution? Maturing? Alterations in line-up? Changes in musical ambitions? Hard to say… really. It all just worked out that way.
What are stories/topics you tell/treat in your songs?
I tend to write lyrics with a certain ironic aspect to them. Most of our songs deal with topics like human nature, relationships, society and communication.
Have you ever considered the possibility to change totally your style of music? If so, what style of music would you choose?
We already have changed a lot, but totally? Nah, can’t say that we have. If we would, we would most likely play a mixture of progressive metal, opera and flamenco (who wouldn’t!?)…or just go pop like everybody else (well not everybody).
What is your favorite song in your repertoire and why?
Personally, my favorite song has got to be “Vigas”. I think it’s the best arrangement we’ve made and I think the hooks turned out great. Besides, it’s probably one of the most challenging songs we play. We all like challenges, don’t we?
Do you tour regularly? Do you prefer performing your music live or in a studio?
We haven’t had the chance to do a proper tour yet, but we will – eventually. We’re all really into playing live. It can give quite a rush if everything works out and the audience is enjoying the gig. On the other hand, I consider myself bit of a gear-head, and perhaps (slightly) prefer working in a studio. It unleashes more creative options.
During the process of making an album, what is the moment that you prefer?
The fulfilling closure when we are listening to the final mix. Can’t beat that feeling, no sir!
What kind of music / What artists do you currently listen?
Recently I have been indulging myself in the works of Lee Morgan, but I also have listened to a lot of Police, Mars Volta, The Haunted and Meshuggah.
A stupid question but… what is, among all the songs you’ve been listening in your life, the BEST song?
There are no such things as stupid questions, only stupid questionnaires. But as for the best song ever…hmm…if was really pressured into giving an answer, I might say Jacob’s Ladder by Rush, ’cause of the vast amounts of great ideas, the wonderful musicianship and the incredible analog synth-sounds in it. Though, most probably my answer would vary depending on the day I was having. Tomorrow I might say Michael Jackson’s Beat It-or I might not.
What is your opinion, as a musician, regarding internet?
It’s a mixed blessing, at best. As an optimist, I want to believe that people actually buy the music that they really like. I know I do.
What are your actual and future projects?
We’re getting ready to record another ep during the summer. It’s gonna be a hot one, it being summer’n all.
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