Artisokka

Finnish indie poppers Artisokka made their U.S. debut with this disc on California's Shelflife Records. The disc begins with the subtle and rhythmic "Motionless," with Jari Hilden's vocals and Mika Seppanen's cello combining to lead the rich opening track. The sextet's breezy brand of pop is instantly reminiscent of Red House Painters. The catchy bassline and playful tambourine on "Mint" create a light and lively sound, and the synthesizers on "Imprint" add a lush and dreamlike aura to the disc. "Alfama" offers a dose of bossa nova-tinged pop. The string ensemble on the soft yet dramatic "Black Puzzle" adds a different dynamic to the six-piece band. The delicate acoustic guitars and hushed vocals are what really set Artisokka apart. The Smiths-inspired "Never Leave Me" might be the disc's highlight, creating an emotional crescendo with Hilden's most impressive vocals of the nine-song disc. The downbeat "Offshore" brings the disc to a calm, subdued ending. The rhythm section of Sami Tiainen and Jani Tiainen of the band Cessna also adds its musical touches to the album. Riina Kontkanen, Topi Korhonen, and Sami Rouhento round out the six-piece lineup. The gentle and comforting sounds on A Hiding Place in the Arbor hint at great things to come from Artisokka. ~ Stephen Cramer, Rovi