Tabula Rasa

Introduction to Tabula Rasa

Tabula Rasa, a Finnish progressive rock band, released their second and final album titled Ekkedien Tanssi in September 1976. This release came out through Love Records, catalog number LRLP 170, a year after their debut album. The band consisted of Heikki Silvennoinen on guitar, Jarno Sinisalo on various keyboards, Tapio Suominen on bass, Jukka Aronen on drums, and Jukka Leppilampi on vocals.

Musical Direction and Production

With the addition of keyboardist Jarno Sinisalo, who joined shortly before recording, Ekkedien Tanssi features a more keyboard-driven sound than its predecessor. The album showcases a blend of piano, electric piano, organ, synthesizer, and harpsichord. This variety enriched the band’s overall sound. Jukka Gustavson, known for his work with Wigwam, co-produced the record and contributed backing vocals. The lyrics, penned by Mikko Alatalo, add depth to the compositions while maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout the album.

Track Highlights

The album opens with the title track, “Ekkedien Tanssi,” which sets the tone for the entire record. Other noteworthy tracks include “Uskollinen” and “Omantunnon Rukous,” both of which exemplify the band’s evolution towards smoother arrangements and mid-tempo pacing. The song “Rakastaa” stands out for its melodic structure, while “Säästä Mun Pää” showcases the group’s rhythmic variety. Each track contributes to a consistent listening experience without sacrificing complexity.

Legacy and Disbandment

Despite the promising sound of Ekkedien Tanssi, Tabula Rasa disbanded in 1977, just a year after this album's release. The band’s brief existence did not hinder their contributions to the Finnish rock scene. Their music continues to be explored by fans of the genre.

Production Details

The album was recorded by Christer Berg, ensuring a polished sound that complemented the band’s innovative style. The cover design was created by Pirjo Sundqvist-Silver, adding a visual dimension to the album. Ekkedien Tanssi is a vinyl LP format, a popular choice for music releases in the 1970s.