FMQ 1/2013

For many an outside observer, metal music seems to be an integral part of Finnishness, representing and reflecting national identity. But how did metal become so prominent in the Finnish music scene? And will the prominence last?

"Never before has Leiviskä’s music been published as a complete CD. This is hardly surprising. She had to work in a world that at the time was (and still is) dominated by men..."

"Fantasiatango 2 is like a never-ending road movie, where the surrounding sceneries change quickly and everything is characterised by enthusiasm and a free atmosphere."

"Rubidium is a collaboration between the Tampere-based Black Motor trio and trumpeter Verneri Pohjola, and could be described as Finnish music in the classic sense. The rough soundscape on this album merges with soft melodies creating jazz that is at once barren and tender – just like the northern nature and mindscape."

"Korpijaakko is clearly at home with the musical possibilities of the guitar with the solo guitar sonata Kimberley (2006), a standout as one of the most remarkable works of recent years for solo guitar composed in Finland."

"It is easy to write about Sin Cos Tan as a kind of extension of Villa Nah, because of the analogue synths, drum machines and Paalosmaa’s voice drowning in melodrama. The truth is not as simple. The music is slippery pop that moves with mercurial flexibility, which makes it a kindred spirit to the nightly urban romance of The Chromatics."

There is something timeless about the music of the Orthodox Church – as indeed about the gilded icons, the noble ecclesiastical architecture and the scent of incense. The only instrument allowed in Orthodox churches is the human voice.

Only love and death can compete with nature as the most common topic in music. In the aftermath of environmental crises, the relationship between music and nature has changed radically. How can music influence our environmental consciousness and conscience? The music of contemporary composer Kalevi Aho and psychedelic rock band Hexvessel show in two distinct ways.

Rising jazz talent Linda Fredriksson brings her sax skills to the forefront in trios plus big bands, and finds magic in the moment of musical inspiration.

A Sixth Symphony, orchestral solo songs, an organ concerto, sonatas for most wind instruments, six new string quartets… not to speak of a world-embracing opera plan and ideas about making a computer clone of oneself.

The first decade of the 21st century witnessed a boom for hymns in Finland. Saxophonist Jukka Perko, one ofthe most fascinating stars in the country's jazz firmament decided to try his hand at recording his interpretations. How, why and what happened then?