Fontaines D.C.: Romance

Genre: Rock, Alternative rock
Publisher: XL Recordings

A modern rock gem created from classic ingredients

Fontaines D.C.'s fourth album, Romance, continues the band's success and solidifies their position at the top of nu-rock. In an article in Helsingin Sanomat, Arttu Seppänen states that Romance takes the band's music in a more pop direction without compromising their signature sound. James Ford is responsible for the album's production, whose signature sound is characterized by a rich, punchy sound with precise arrangements, but the production is never overblown.

Singer Grian Chatten's poetic lyrics draw inspiration from the melancholic streets of Dublin, and they include influences from writers such as T.S. Eliot and James Joyce. Romance manages to be both timely and original, especially in the song "In The Modern World", which combines Lana Del Rey and post-punk influences. The album's tracks, such as "Favourite", evoke images of classic British 1980s songs, but at the same time sound fresh.

Seppänen compares Romance to Nirvana's Nevermind album and highlights how the band's defiant attitude and technical prowess keep the whole thing together. Romance is an album that combines old influences with a new direction while maintaining the band's distinctive style.

Report in Helsingin Sanomat on August 26, 2024. Written by: Arttu Seppänen.

Lauri Porra: A fair of matter and time

Genre: Orchestra music, Progressive Rock
Publisher: BIS Records

A magnificent work that touches deeply

Lauri Porra's Aineen ja ajan is a work that combines elements of orchestral music and progressive rock in a unique way. In his review of the album, Teppo Nättilä describes it as "a magnificent work" that manages to evoke deep emotions and bring the cold winds of time to the skin. The album is impressive both musically and emotionally, and it deals with themes of human life and time in a profound and touching way.

The review highlights Porra’s ability to create music that is both modern and timelessly beautiful. The fusion of matter and time is combined with traditional orchestral music with the rhythms and progressive structures of rock, making it a versatile and multi-layered work. Nättilä mentions that listening to the album is like traveling through different eras and moods, and it manages to leave a lasting impression on its listeners.

Porra's musical vision shines through the entire album, and its ability to evoke emotions is undeniable. The work is meticulously composed and produced, offering the listener a rich and profound listening experience. The symphony of matter and time not only entertains but also challenges the listener to contemplate deeper questions about life and provides space for the free flow of emotions.

Reported in Arvio on 29th August 2023. Written by: Teppo Nättilä.

Armand Hammer: We Buy Diabetic Test Strips

Genre: Hip-hop, Rap
Publisher: Fat Possum

A five-star masterpiece that rivals its peers

Armand Hammer's latest album We Buy Diabetic Test Strips has received a perfect five stars in Sound's review, and rightly so. The review states that this New York-based duo has created a masterpiece that stands out among its peers in the hip-hop world. Formed by Elucid and Billy Woods, Armand Hammer is known for his uncompromising style, and on this album they continue on the same path – but this time they have gone beyond themselves.

The album’s production is filled with complex rhythms and dark tones that complement the duo’s lyrical themes. The songs address social injustices, personal trauma, and the Black American experience in a way that is both touching and profound. The review states that the album is not easy to listen to, but this is exactly what makes it so impactful. It forces the listener to pause and reflect.

We Buy Diabetic Test Strips also demonstrates Armand Hammer’s ability to seamlessly combine various musical elements. The album features influences from jazz to industrial, and this diversity makes the record particularly interesting. Collaborations with producers like The Alchemist have taken the album production to a new level.

The review emphasizes that We Buy Diabetic Test Strips is a masterpiece that deserves to be heard and analyzed again and again. It is an album that sets the bar high for both Armand Hammer and the entire hip-hop genre.

Reported in Sound on 29th August 2023. Written by Mikko Meriläinen.