Charlies

Introduction to Charlies

Charlies is a Finnish power trio that emerged in 1964 near Lahti. The band was formed when guitarist Eero Ravi and bassist Kari "Pitka" Lehtinen combined their two separate instrumental rock bands. Lehtinen made the switch from guitar to bass, marking a new direction for the group. The band's sound evolved significantly after a Cream concert in Helsinki in autumn 1967, influencing them to adopt a heavier, blues-based rock style.

Buttocks Album Release

In December 1970, Charlies released their album titled Buttocks on the Love Records label, catalog number LRLP 29. This album consists of eight tracks, with lyrics penned by Vesa Lehtinen. The music was composed entirely by the band, featuring a blend of rock, hard rock, and progressive rock elements. The album is characterized by its loud guitar work, extended improvisation, and lengthy drum and bass solos, drawing comparisons to bands like Cream and Jimi Hendrix.

Production and Recording Details

Buttocks was produced by Eero Ravi and recorded by Pekka Nurmikallio. The album's artwork was created by Kari Lehtinen. The tracks vary in length, with standout compositions such as "Try, Try Or You'll Never Die," which runs for 7 minutes and 51 seconds, showcasing the band's improvisational skills. Other notable tracks include "Smoggy Story" and "Madness And Otherkind Of Influences."

Performance History

Charlies was active in the Finnish rock scene until 1975. They performed at the Ruisrock festival in 1970, a significant event in Finnish music history. The band developed a reputation for their energetic live performances and their commitment to heavy, blues-infused rock.

Legacy of the Album

Buttocks is regarded as one of the rarer Finnish rock LPs from the era, highly sought after by collectors. The album's distinct sound and musical arrangements contribute to its unique place in the Finnish rock landscape.

Charlies was active until 1975.