Koria Kitten Riot, the solo guise of singer-songwriter Antti Reikko, released a very impressive debut album last year that went largely unnoticed. It is a happy mix of alternative pop and americana that is both infectious and beautifully constructed.
The band site The Flaming Lips, Elliott Smith and Wilco among their influences. It was recorded in Berlin with Doug Van Sloan (Bright Eyes, She & Him) handling mastering and is a joy to listen to and highly recommended for fans of this genre.
‘Rich Men Poor Men Good Men’ is an incredibly honest and developed release from a talented singer-songwriter. Reikko has honed his craft over the past few years and shows what can be achieved when a songwriter is given permission to work ‘f*****g hard, be honest and make ballsy decisions’.
There is a lot of reassurance in these songs, even if they have a slightly whimsical touch to them. They remind us that there are plenty of good things in the world to go around, and that hope can ‘lie just around the corner’.
As always, the lyrics are well-written and the melodies are beautifully crafted. It’s a refreshing change from the drabness that dominates much of the contemporary music scene.
The band’s latest album ‘Songs of Hope and Science’ is a lovely blend of indie-pop and singer-songwriter influences with a touch of drama and charm. They are a band to watch and their new track ‘Breathe’ is one that is not to be missed.