A new band on the rise in Finland

(Artist Report)

Written by: Cody Denning

Helsinki's music scene just got a lot more interesting with the rise of Bad Valentines, a band that’s paying homage to the arena-stomping glamsters and punk-rock purveyors of the 1970s while nodding to the pop giants of the 1960s.

Defiant and uncompromising, Bad Valentines have brewed a potent mix of life, love, and grit, perfectly capturing the essence of these times. The band’s lineup boasts veterans of the Finnish indie and underground music scene, with members having previously made names for themselves in acts such as Daggerplay and Plastic Tears. Adding a fresh burst of energy is newcomer vocalist Hon, who's already making herself known with her powerful voice.

Bad Valentines have just released their debut single and video, the anti-war anthem "Mariia." This track is the first release from their upcoming EP, 'Memory Tattoos,' which was recorded in March 2024. The band collaborated with producers Petri Majuri, known for his work with Franz Ferdinand, Michael Monroe, and Hanoi Rocks, and Sammy Aaltonen, who has worked with Andy McCoy and Private Line.

The current lineup of Bad Valentines is: Hon: Vocals Pekko Mantzin: Guitar and backing vocals Kupe Wessman: Guitar and backing vocals Edu: Bass Sirpa Immonen: Drums With "Mariia" setting the tone, 'Memory Tattoos' promises to be a compelling collection of tracks that reflect the band's raw and authentic sound. Keep an eye on Bad Valentines—they’re set to make a significant impact on the music scene.

Hitting the ground running, the band has already played a score of shows and been featured on multiple playlist since the release of their debut single. The early success and determination of this band is impressive, we will continue to keep you updated on this release and new developments.