KKR is the neo-soul project of Antti Reikko, a Helsinki-based singer-songwriter. His music reflects the influence of Elliott Smith, The Flaming Lips, Bright Eyes and Sufjan Stevens, among others.
KKR’s debut album, Songs of Hope and Science, is an excellent addition to the neo-soul genre. It combines melody and thoughtful lyrics that point out the frailty of human nature.
About the band
Helsinki, Finland based indie rockers Koria Kitten Riot have been around for a while now and have been quietly building a following for their quirky instrumental indie pop. Fronted by Antti Reikko, a former magazine editor at Dissident, Get Rhythm and Bullit, they have released two excellent albums, and now are readying their third in the form of ‘Rich Men Poor Men Good Men’.
This is a very clever album from an artist with a knack for the unexpected and a love of finely detailed pop music. It combines the intimacy of Reikko’s voice with grandiose arrangements that remind us of Bright Eyes in the best possible way.
There are a number of impressive songs on this album but the title track has to be the stand out – it’s a song that really has to be experienced to be believed. It’s a track that features all the hallmarks of Reikko’s signature vocals and cleverly incorporates a glockenspiel, a mandolin, an acoustic guitar and a harmonica to create one of the most engrossing indie pop tracks we have heard in ages. It’s a masterpiece, a real winner that should be high on everyone’s list of must-listen albums of the year.
Music
A few bands from the mid-’00s really caught my eye – Annuals, Decemberists, Grandaddy – and they all were purveying a sort of instrument-stuffed, cheery indie-pop that was not being well represented on the radio. In their own way, koriakittenriot picks up on that torch.
On their third LP, ‘Songs of Hope and Science’, Helsinki-based indie pop quintet koriakittenriot prod humanity with a big stick, but they also poke fun at the world and remind us that hope does indeed lie just around the corner. Their gentle melodic songwriting and thoughtful lyrics, coupled with their ability to make listeners feel the world is a much better place than they are, gives their songs a sense of purpose.
Their lyrical style is reminiscent of Elliott Smith and Neutral Milk Hotel, with a little bit of Wilco and early Weezer to boot. Lead singer Antti Reikko regularly dissects and explains his band’s songs, and the resulting music carries the personal touch of a songwriter who is very aware of his emotions.
‘Songs of Hope and Science’ is a remarkable and honest recording, and one of the most developed recordings I’ve heard from KKR to date. The album, which intertwines hope and science, was conceived and recorded during the most difficult time of Reikko’s life and is a testament to his experiences in the past two years.
Videos
Finnish indie rock act koriakittenriot (featuring Antti Reikko on vocals and guitar) have released a series of cleverly shot videos. With the help of visual artist Matt Haggerty, they have crafted a series of videos that show off their impressive songwriting and musicianship in a way that isn’t overwhelming.
‘Songs of Hope and Science’, their debut album, is an impressive fusion of indie rock, psychedelia and Americana. Fronted by a man of the people, Antti Reikko, KKR have created a well crafted album that is influenced by the likes of Elliott Smith and Wilco. ‘Songs of Hope and Science’ is one of those albums that you will want to listen to over and over again. If you’re a fan of indie rock, give it a try you won’t be disappointed.
Tours
If you love cheerful, instrument-stuffed indie pop, Koria Kitten Riot is a band to check out. Fronted by Antti Reikko, a singer-songwriter who also plays guitar in the indie rock band Johnny Superhero, KKR’s debut album, Rich Men Poor Men Good Men, is an intoxicating blend of intimate vocals, grandiose instrumental arrangements, and meticulous detail. Reikko cites Elliott Smith, Wilco, The Flaming Lips, Bright Eyes and early Weezer as influences, and the resulting material is like a finely-crafted cocktail of the best of these bands.
KKR tours frequently, and they’re in the process of recording a third record. The group toured as a five-piece throughout 2012, and is planning another tour this summer. Check out their upcoming tour dates below, and see what else they’re up to by following them on Facebook. You can also listen to their songs on Boomplay. And if you like their music, please support them by buying their albums!