Album Review: Simsalabim by Kumikameli – A Punk-Infused Finnish Rock Gem
Released in 2006 on Stupido Records, Simsalabim is a wild, unapologetic ride through the raw energy of punk and rock. Hailing from Finland, Kumikameli delivers an album that’s equal parts gritty, catchy, and chaotic—a perfect snapshot of mid-2000s underground rock with a distinctly Nordic twist. Produced by Kimmo (who also wears multiple hats as mixer and mastering guru), this record doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but instead polishes it just enough for you to notice.
What Makes It Stick?
Let’s dive into two standout tracks that’ll have you hitting repeat—or at least scratching your head in awe.
First up, “Lävistä Minut.” This track hits like a punch to the gut, with Joppe Vento’s vocals slicing through layers of distorted guitars and pounding drums courtesy of Olli-Matti Wahlström. The lyrics—penned by Toppo Koponen—are cryptic yet oddly relatable, capturing that universal feeling of being overwhelmed while still wanting more. It’s not perfect, mind you; there are moments where the mix feels slightly uneven, but honestly? That roughness adds character. You don’t forget songs like this because they sound real—even if you can’t fully decipher what “real” means here.
Then there’s “Hiehot Halki,” which feels like a fever dream wrapped in a mosh pit. The basslines from Joppe Vento (yes, he pulls double duty) anchor the chaos, while Jute Musikka’s guitar riffs zigzag unpredictably. There’s something about the way the song builds tension only to drop it abruptly—it keeps you guessing, almost like the band is daring you to keep up. If I had to pick one track that sums up Simsalabim, this would be it. It’s messy, loud, and kinda brilliant all at once.
Behind the Scenes
The credits tell their own story. With Miika Saksi handling the cover art, the visuals mirror the music’s edgy vibe without trying too hard. Meanwhile, Pekka Koskelo and Tuomas Keinänen nail the recording process, letting every imperfection shine through. And let’s give props to Kimmo Perkkiö, who mastered the heck out of this thing—because trust me, these tracks needed someone who knew how to wrangle them into shape.
Final Thoughts
Simsalabim isn’t gonna win any Grammys, nor does it seem like it was aiming for that. Instead, it’s a testament to DIY spirit and sheer audacity. Listening to it feels like stumbling into a sweaty basement show where everyone knows the words except you—but you’re still singing along anyway.
Oh, and here’s the kicker: after spinning this album, you might find yourself wondering why we don’t hear more Finnish punk-rock bands breaking onto the global scene. Maybe it’s time someone changed that.
Rating: 7/10 – Not flawless, but unforgettable in its own weird way.
