Varvara – Southeast Relations

Releasedate: 05-10-2011; Label: Playground
By: Sabine van Gameren

Varvara is an alternative rock band based in Hamina, southeast Finland. The band started in 2007 as a side project. An EP called “This City Offers No Comfort” got released in 2010 and anno 2011 the band comes with a full length release: “Southeast Relations”.

The band has something really mellow over them. It calms you down when needed, gives you an intimate atmosphere which brings the illusion the band is right in front of you in your own living room. Yet musically the band is not bringing the most innovative music, which does not seem to be what they were after anyway. Vocalist Mikko Kiri has a smooth voice, giving a warm sound to the sound. The drums are quite upfront in the mix, which may not always be needed that much, but gives it all a bit power. As the band takes up the tempo it creates a stronger body and that is exactly why you will not lose your interest while listening to this release. Some strong melodies are driving you further into it and when the album ends you can only draw the conclusion that Varvara made a great album. It does need some attention and maybe some time to grow, but open your mind and enjoy.

Line Up:
Mikko Kiri – vocals, guitar
Simo Kuhlman – bass
Jonne Virtanen – drums
Timo Peltonen – guitar
Miika Pylkkänen – keyboards

Tracklist: 01. Worst Case Scenario 02. Limbs 03. Nicotine Stains 04. Next to Nothing 05. Family Visits 06. If I 07. Man Overboard! 08. Count Me Out 09. Tulips 10. Handmade Hero

Links:
Varvara Facebook