The goodness of gloom [Malaysia]

In a jungle of American rock culture, it’s difficult for European rock bands to break through in this part of the world. Finnish rock act The Rasmus is set to face this challenge head-on as it makes its way down to Kuala Lumpur this month, writes Miriam Shastri.
“Everyone who comes to one of our concerts leaves with a smile on their face”, says Lauri Ylönen, lead singer of the The Rasmus.
The four-piece band was formed back in 1994 when its members were in high school and has to date released six albums, including a Greatest Hits compilation in 2001 and their most recent and most successful international release, Dead Letters, in 2003.
“The mood on Dead Letters is gloomier and more melancholic, not only because of the melodies but because we are singing about more frightening topics that really affect and touch people”, Lauri says about The Rasmus’ latest album, which features hit singles “In The Shadows” and “First Day Of My Life” and has sold more than 500,000 units (worldwide) to date.
The Rasmus’ current style of music, according to Lauri, is “rock with many layers” which includes heavy gothic and alternative influences.
“We consider ourselves a goth band”, confirms Lauri.
Goth is generally considered to be a genre of rock music with sombre melodies and mystical lyrics that evoke bleak, melancholic imagery. (The current most successful bands in the mainstream version of this genre are the American bands Evanescence, AFI and the Finnish band HIM.)
In the video of the band’s hit single “In The Shadows”, Lauri and Co made sure to dress and style themselves in true “goth” fashion, relaying an image of a gloomy band glowering with cheerlessness and desperation.
One wonders why, then, Lauri is so certain of concertgoers’ cheerfulness at the end of every Rasmus concert.
“It is because of the general meaning of our songs. We try to make people think about themselves, tell them they have to make sacrifices to get somewhere and encourage them with our music.”
“Concert-goers are fans, and they will get what they came to hear: a different style of music, melodic, thoughtful and honest.”
The Rasmus’ albums were one success after the next, and award-winning singles such as “Liquid”, “Chill” and “F-f-f-falling” that topped the Finnish charts for three consecutive months, proved to audiences all over Europe that these Finnish rockers are a force to be reckoned with.
“Our music is generally spontaneous, meaningful and packed with emotion”, emphasises Lauri, adding that the band members always try to be as creative and sincere in their music as possible.
Think Finland and you might think Northern Lights, winter, melancholy vistas and the dark moods of its inhabitants consoled only through their resolute perseverance. According to Lauri, this is the prevailing mood and imagery on “Dead Letters”.
Lauri explains his lyrics on the album as earnest and heartfelt: “Each song is a letter to somebody. It could be an apology, confession or cry for help.”
“My lyrics are always personal and every word has a meaning that reminds me of something that has happened.”
The quartet, which consists of Lauri on vocals, Pauli on guitars, Aki on drums and Eero on bass, has supported many international rock greats in Finland, such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Garbage and Rancid and has toured with Roxette, fellow countrymen HIM and the Spanish rock band Dover.
“Being able to share my music with the world is like a dream come true.”
Having played for and convinced audiences all over Europe, The Rasmus have yet to display its unique talents and music to the Asian realm.
“All I know is that playing in Asia will be nothing like Europe”, claims Lauri, adding that he is looking forward to this “totally new experience.”
Asked how he feels about coming to Asia, Lauri says that he is very grateful for the opportunity to introduce The Rasmus to different parts of the world.
As for the tough competition all around, Lauri admits it is hard with many “copycats and mainstream bands” plastering the rock music scene, but opines that “every band is unique and has to find its own way and style” if it is to remain in this business.
With successful records to its name and Finnish Grammy Awards for best band, best single (“F-f-f-falling”), best rock/pop band and album of the year, The Rasmus has proven itself in the European music scene and, according to Lauri, guarantees to display “something different” to Asian fans when it makes its way to Kuala Lumpur.
The band’s commitment to performing live has been a recipe for success when it comes to connecting with The Rasmus’ expanding audiences in a unique way.
“We hope to make this kind of connection when we come to Malaysia”, concludes Lauri.
The Rasmus will have a live set at Hard Rock Cafe, Jalan Sultan Ismail, in Kuala Lumpur on July 19. Cover charge applies. For bookings call 03-2715 5555. Enquiries to Universal Malaysia (the band’s label) at 03-7958 7433.

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