Kalabaliikki is a Helsinki-based retro-futuristic ethnic fusion band that defies strict definition. Inspired by sun-bleached vacation advertisements, vaguely psychedelic European animations from the 1980s, and surrealities in the annals of history, the band creates fictitious folk music for imaginary peoples.

The unique soundscape of Kalabaliikki is a combination of Petri Lahtinen’s Cretan laouto and bağlama saz, Matti Pekonen’s extraordinary electric bass effects, and the enticing rhythms of the drummer-percussionist pair Santeri Kinnunen and Janne “Aukka” Auvinen. At Sophie, the band is joined by guitarist Samuli Paldanius.

The event is a celebration of Kalabaliikki’s debut album “Leijonan kääntöpiiri” (“Tropic of Lion”), which will be released digitally and on vinyl by Alakulttuuritalo on 30 May.

Restaurant Sophie

4.6.2025

19.00-22.00

Free entry, age limit: 18