In 2023, my relentless quest to explore the boundless universe of music gained new dimensions. Despite the trend of ‘musical paralysis’ setting in around 30, I’ve persistently charted the unfamiliar waters of new sounds, driven by the belief that there’s always more music out there waiting to resonate with my soul. This year, my discoveries – a mix of unexpected genres and new bands – have become the soundtrack of my days, demonstrating that our musical appetite need not diminish with age.
In this blog post, I’ll introduce four standout bands and albums from my 2023 playlist:
Tinyhawk & Bizzarro – Nekorok: This Finnish experimental instrumental band, led by guitarist and composer Jenni Kinnunen, captivated me with their debut album. It’s a rich blend of Finnish electric guitar music with diverse influences, from western film scores to West African desert blues. The album’s modern psychedelic rock and 1980s adult rock elements, coupled with a Japanese influence, make each track a unique exploration of experimental rock.
Wilderun – Epigone / Veil of Imagination: This Boston-based progressive and symphonic metal band’s two latest albums ware favourites of mine in 2023. With intense orchestration and captivating vocals, it echoes mid-era Opeth but with less growling. They showcase a dynamic range from serene acoustics to powerful heaviness, making the band a distinct presence in the progressive metal landscape.
The Halo Effect – Days of the Lost: Reigniting the melodic death metal scene, this Swedish band formed by ex-members of In Flames released their debut album in 2022. Rooted in the Gothenburg metal legacy, the album topped the charts in many countries, blending their collective experience to create a contemporary yet classic melodic death metal sound.
Converge & Chelsea Wolfe – Bloodmoon: I: This collaborative album, released in late 2021, marked an extraordinary fusion of hardcore and atmospheric styles. Incorporating Chelsea Wolfe‘s haunting vocals and the combined talents of Ben Chisholm and Stephen Brodsky, it represents a unique blend of genres, creating something reflective of the artists’ combined creativity.
Each of these bands and albums represents a significant part of my musical journey in 2023, highlighting the endless possibilities and discoveries in the world of music.
Jarmo Puolakanaho 