Musta Paraati / Peilitalossa (1983)
Musta Paraati is one of the few somewhat popular Finnish post-punk bands. Often credited for starting the whole gothic rock wave in Finland, they’ve earned their place in the Finnish rock canon. Their debut album Peilitalossa is also highly acclaimed and considered one of the classics of Finnish pop music.
Musta Paraati had their roots in classic punk, but by 1983 the angry and fast punk rock of Nolla Nolla Nolla (which already had hints of what was to come every here and there) had changed into more synth and bass orientated post-punk. The band is often compared to Killing Joke, which is understandable. The cold and industrial synthesiser sounds, the heavy and droning guitars, the clanging bass riffs and somewhat gloomy and “the end is nigh” lyrics and preaches are all present. Still Musta Paraati doesn’t sound like a total Killing Joke rip-off, but have their own distinguishable sound and vibe. Funky, danceable and delightfully dark and dramatic, what more could you ask for? Peilitalossa is class A-material from start to finish, just listen to the churning rage of Eläimen kalu, Peilitalo and Ääni pimeästä or dance to the eery darkness of Ajatus, Hyvää yötä and Metalliset kasvot. The last track,Romanssi is one of the greatest Finnish post-punk anthems. It might not be the most original pick, but it is that good. The synthriffs, the slightly disorientated guitar riffs and the funky rhythm section just forces you to apply heavy make-up, ruffle your hair up and dance the night away while staring at your winklepickers. Yeah, it is one of those songs.
If you enjoy post-punk and want to broaden your knowledge (or just earn scene points, what ever), check outPeilitalossa. Works just as well at home as on your local goth night club.
