Rantama, Finnish Rock from the Eastern Wildlands

Rantama – Rantama (Eclipse Music, 2020)

Rantama is a relatively new rock band from Kuopio in eastern Finland. Apparently, Rantama used to be an instrumental fusion trio, but now it is a quartet, with vocals. The group’s sound is a combination of classic rock, hard rock, and progressive rock. The best moments by far are the instrumental sections, such as the second part of “Dying Star,” where the guitar gets the spotlight, supported by a creative rhythm section.

Another highlight is the bluesy instrumental “Ground Frost Forger,” where the band’s guitarist, Timo Rantama, displays various musical influences, ranging from blues and jazz to the laid back side of Eric Johnson.

The final track, the longest piece on the album, also stands out. Rantama uses overdubs to multiply the guitar sounds and the vocals here are more interesting than in the rest of the album.  

The lineup includes Taavi Kiiskenen on vocals; Timo Rantama on guitar and keyboards; Iiro Laitinen on drums and percussion; and Tatu Back on bass.

Overall, it is a promising band that seems to pull in two directions: short form rock songs with pop hooks and progressive rock.

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