The debut of MOUNT MARY two years ago was worth nine points to me. When I reflect like this, I like to give out a high score in exuberance, which I would not give again in a few years. In the case of this, if not even THE Finnish institution in terms of classic rock with recognizable tendencies towards harder sounds, I still stand by every word two years later, also by the note.
And MOUNT MARY are also one of the bands that keep ending up on my turntable, which is to be taken literally since this music belongs on vinyl. What particularly impresses me is the fact that we are dealing with seasoned musicians who have been active nationally and internationally for decades, apart from the youngest drummer Otto Haapanen. Maria Hänninen could now write a book about her involvement in productions and live shows of other acts, bassist Jukka Jylli has been one of the best in his field for a long time, not just since KINGSTON WALL, guitarist Petri Majuri has been conjuring up a perfect sound for artists from HANOI ROCKS to Billy Cobham for years . And yet MOUNT MARY sound hungry, fresh. In contrast to some collection of veteran muckers, whose albums ultimately pass as okay, but are stiff as hips.
An acquaintance of mine said some time ago, in relation to Classic Rock, “If you’ve heard one, you’ve heard them all.” With which he could well be right with so many releases in this sector. If only there weren’t exceptions. For example WUCAN, who have a completely unique approach to this sound. Or BLUES PILLS (where’s the next album?), which skilfully integrate soul. And then also MOUNT MARY. There is no flute here, no soul. The ingredients with which the Finns cook their soup are well known, but MOUNT MARY taste it with a good portion of power, which makes even some youthfully impetuous newcomers look old.
01. Screamin’
02. Diamonds Of A Fool
03. Insecurity
04. Color Of My Tear
05. Now You Gotta Cry Alone
06. Tohu Bohu
07. I Will Find My Way To You
08. Heart Astray
09. Heavenly Light