Utopianisti - The Third Frontier (2016) [Hi-Res]

Markus Pajakkala: saksofonit, huilut, klarinetit, koskettimet, perkussiot, Olli Helin: trumpetti,
Antero Mentu: sähkökitara, nauhaton sähkökitara, Anssi Solismaa: Hammond C-3, Fender Rhodes ym. koskettimet,
Tuomas Marttila: marimba, perkussiot, Jaakko Luoma: basso ja Rolf Pilve: rummut
Vierailijoina Suvi Väyrynen: laulu raidoilla 3, 6 ja 9 ja Pekka ”Pharaoh” Pirttikangas: laulu raidalla 7

The Finnish composer and multi-instrumentalist Markus Pajakkala's project, Utopianisti, has evolved into a full band on its third album. Inspired by jazz-rock and progressive music in the spirit of Frank Zappa and Pekka Pohjola, the seven-member group from Tampere hit the ground running, securing a tour in Mexico before even playing a live show. Pajakkala’s vision for a live band materialized after the second album in 2014, assembling his favorite musicians to create a high-energy, unified sound.

The latest album features music recorded live in the studio, capturing the band's synergy. Unlike the previous albums, which had a more eclectic approach with rotating musicians, this album embraces a consistent jazz-rock/prog style and focuses on the strengths of each band member. Drawing from influences like Zappa’s instrumentation and Pohjola's thematic development, Pajakkala aims to blend raw energy, intricate harmonies, unpredictable moments, and a strong groove.

Pajakkala also fulfilled a long-time dream of recording with Rockadillo Records and Pohjola Records, marking a career milestone. As a versatile musician, Pajakkala has collaborated with numerous bands across genres and works as a lead composer and producer for Yousician. Through Utopianisti, Pajakkala hopes to reach a wider audience and bring his ambitious musical vision to the forefront.

Tracklist:
1-1. Utopianisti - Voodoo Mammoths from Neptune (04:25)
1-2. Utopianisti - Dr. Gravity's Evil Plan (04:01)
1-3. Utopianisti - Universe for Dummies (05:52)
1-4. Utopianisti - White Dwarf (01:24)
1-5. Utopianisti - Life as We Thought We Knew It (04:55)
1-6. Utopianisti - A Hundred Rabbits (05:03)
1-7. Utopianisti - Spanking Season (02:33)
1-8. Utopianisti - 13 Demons in the Disco Dimension (03:12)
1-9. Utopianisti - The Last Reflection (07:00)