Viima ~ Finland

Väistyy Mielen Yö (2024)

It's been ages since I last checked in with Viima. The 2010 revisit of their debut (below) is the last time I've heard a note from this fine band from Finland. I was quite enthused about the group through their second album, and then they disappeared after years of promising a third effort. That third album day finally arrived a couple of years ago. I broke down and decided I unnecessarily needed another Viima effort, even though I have plenty of this type of sound already. I keep saying I'm done adding to my collection more of the same. Old habits die hard.

Singing defiantly in Finnish, like fellow countrymen Sammal and Malady, Viima go about making progressive rock the 1974 way. That would include instrumentation. Flute, Rhodes, organ, mellotron, and psychy electric guitar. Along with a rhythm section that feels an obligation to provide a challenging meter or three. All Genius Hans Essentials. I've said it before, but sometimes going back to my roots maintains my collecting enthusiasm. As much as I enjoy exploring new avenues, I also appreciate returning home and curling up in the familiar bed while watching an old TV episode. With hot chocolate. And these beautiful gatefold covers also bring me back to the golden age. Comfortable. Yes, comfortable is the right word. 

Ownership: 2024 private (LP). Gatefold. Acquired in 2026.

2/23/26 (review)

  

Ajatuksia Maailman Laidalta (2006)

It’s getting to the point that everything that’s from Finland is great. They are to the current decade what the French were to the 1980s. And thank goodness for that. Wasn’t sure what to expect here. Was told it was Finnish folk prog, and about the only band I associate with that is the obscure and rare Scapa Flow. It’s not really like that however. Even though it’s sung in beautiful Finnish, the album has more of a UK feel than one from continental Europe. The female vocals are one distinguishing factor. What’s interesting to me are the guitar breaks, which are rooted in hard rock – a clear departure from the acoustic folk psych of the base material. I quite liked this one.

Ownership: 

2006 private (CD).

2018 private (LP). Gatefold with lyrics. Acquired in 2022.

12//2006 (review); 3/15/10

Also own and need to review Kahden Kuun Sirpit.

3/15/10 (new entry)