Best export from Finland 2013: Lost Society

I am facing something from Finland I can be really proud of. No, it’s not the latest Nokia phone, it’s a trash metal band called Lost Society. Finland’s Global Battle Of The Bands 2012 winner has published their first album Fast Loud Death this year, which has recieved good reviews globally. I met two very happy fellows from the band, guitarist and lead vocalist Samy Elbana and drummer Ossi Paananen.

What’s your first expression of Ilosaarirock?

Samy: “It’s our first time here and we’re stunned how much people are here. Startting to get good vibe before the gig.”

Ossi: Yep, looking good all around. We’re a bit dissapointed for the fact that Mötorhead had to cancel but we’ll definitely check Michael Monroe tomorrow.”

You have a grazy summer going on. Do you still have energy for more?

Samy: “Well it’s our first summer touring and we’re loving every minute of it. It’s amazing that the guys we’re looking up to come in festivals to talk with us and about us. We’re just blown by this all.”

Ossi: “We’re definitely ready for even more gigs. We’re are living the dream and we’re looking forward everything we can achieve.”

Well guys, what’s the current groupie situation?

Samy: “Pretty weak to be honest. Mainly surrounded by handsome young men but we’ve spotted few good looking babes here in Joensuu.”

Ossi: “Yep, there’s alwasy room for groupies.”

You were singed by Nuclear Blast Records and you’ve been noted by some famous trash metal legends. What do you think all of this?

Ossi: “The label has been really supportive and more than good to us. We can just be really grateful for them. We’re just trying to give out our best and come even better.”

Samy: “For some parts we’re still trying to realize what is going on but at the same time we don’t wanna think that the road to glory and fame is allready made for us. We still have a lot to learn.”

What are your thoughts of the level of trash metal in Finland at the moment?

Samy: “We have to be realistic as I don’t think trash metal will ever be mainstream in Finland but there is definitely good signs in the air.”

Ossi: “Our buddies Forced Kill from Jyväskylä and New Clear Omniside from Helsinki are doing some good shit, so I recon we’ll be hearing more of them in the future.”

How are your plans for the rest of the year?

Samy: “We’re starting to do a new album later this year and more gigs are a head. We’re gonna do some gigs in Germany and even in a country far away but a bit of a secret at the moment.”

What can we expect from your gig tonight here in Ilosaari?

Samy: “We’ve been practicing really hard after Tuska festival and tonight is the first time we’re going to play some new songs live. We’re really excited and looking forward to it.”

Ossi: “I’m gonna put up the tempo, that’s for sure and the giant ass mascot will be ther as well.”

Text: Antti Parkkinen
Photos: Lauri Hämäläinen