The Helsinki band formed by Johannes Laiho (paino, synthesizer), Kari Saarilahti (guitar, drums, bass) Pekka Mikkonen (flute, tenor saxophone) and Tommy Lindgren (vocals, rap) combines musical influences, including hip hop, jazz, funk, classical and electronica. DJBB defies comparison – they have their own totally unique sound – the closest sonic semblance would be to Finnish band Giant Robot.

DJBB self-funded the release of Support de Microphones, which features instrumental and rap-flavored pieces. In particular, the hip hop influenced pieces are brilliant. For example, “Jesus Adidas,” “Helsinki Cadenza” and “Disco San Francisco” are upbeat pieces infused with a good rap. “Get on the Mic” makes you want to dance. The album’s instrumental peak is represented by “No. 1 at the Hamburg Concept,” which contains elements from classical music. “Turbo Boost” takes on the legendary Knight Rider TV show’s theme song. The album also contains two interesting covers: Louis Armstrong’s “Wonderful World” and Kirka’s “Surun pyyhit silmistäni” (Wipe the Sorrow from Your Eyes), two familiar hits that even younger listeners will recognize. DJBB recasts these classics into a new form. “Wonderful World” sounds mighty fine, with its special musical background, while “Suru” reworks Kirka’s hit as a jazz-influenced instrumental.

Support de Microphones is an excellent album, which will be praised by critics and regular folks alike. DJBB’s music doesn’t sound commercial, but it also doesn’t sound like an avant oddity. Look for this independently released album at the following shops: Helsinki’s Popparienkeli, Digelius, Specialist, Lifesaver, Subside, Funkies, Dis ‘n’ Dat and Spinefarm; Turku’s Mind Records and Musiikkinurkka; as well as Tampere’s Swamp Music.

Rating:

ANTTI NIEMELÄ