These Pop Liisa concerts were quite the revelation when Svart uncovered them about 6 years ago. I reported on most of the early ones already, but never did get around to penning notes on this release, which probably is the best one in terms of consistency.
Kalevala's People No Names album is one of my all time favorite early 70s Scandinavian albums. It's a high energy piece unmatched by the competition. The Pop Liisa concert comes one year later from that landmark album. Vocalist Harri Saksala has moved back to his native Finnish language and they've since added a woodwinds player. The music is similar, a bit more toned down, but nearly as satisfying, especially when Sakari Kukko pulls out the flute. According to the liner notes 'Verkossa' is the only track from People No Names, known as 'In the Net' on that album. However the primary theme of 'Myrskyä Pakoon' is definitely on People No Names as well, but I'll need to play it again to identify which track. An excellent archival find.
Even better is Nimbus' concert. Contrary to Kalevala, this predates their sole album. There are two tracks that are similar here, but again this is mostly unique material. Over the years, I've really come to appreciate Nimbus' progressive rock styling (and you can read my notes here on UMR), and this concert is on par with that great album. I seem to be alone in my praise, not an uncommon place to find myself, but this is an extraordinary effort.
Ownership: CD: 2016 Svart. Purchased new not long after release. Superb archival issue with full historical liner notes and great sound (all things considered). You can buy these as 2 separate release on vinyl, if so desired.
7/21/17; 6/19/22 (new entry)
