Liekki

Following the 1999 dissolution of the well-known Karkkiautomaatti (Candymatic), two of its alumni established Liekki (Flame). Singer, guitarist, and songwriter Janne Kuusela joined forces with drummer Vesa Lehto, who recruited bass player Teemu Soininen and keyboardist Okke Komulainen, a seasoned musician whose résumé includes stints with Bomfunk MC's, Sleepy Sleepers, and Leningrad Cowboys. Their debut effort, Magio, appeared in spring 2001 and drew widespread critical praise; the fusion of hypnotic prog rock with classic singer/songwriter fare likewise found favor with listeners. Lehto exited shortly thereafter, and Juha Kulmala took over drumming duties on the next album. Issued in 2003, Korppi (The Crow) surpassed the first record. The new drummer heightened the moody pop textures laced with quasi-mystical touches, accelerating the band's growing momentum. Universal Music signed Liekki in 2004. Rajan Piirsin Taa (I Drew the Line Behind) arrived in 2005 amid mounting acclaim from both critics and audiences, then gave way to 2007's Kalliot leikkaa (The Hills Cut), which introduced heavy metal accents to the group's palette.