SORTOVUODET 1994 - 2004

Sometimes bands hide real gems to single b-sides, sometimes they just throw something together and unfortunately latter seems to be the case here. Collected here are on CD 1 most if not all b-sides and non-lp compilation tracks up to 2004 from Absoluuttinen Nollapiste, along with two new tracks, their whole debut EP and on CD 2 live recording of their probably most appreciated album "Suljettu".

Unfortunately the said b-sides as well as the two new tracks sound exactly like album leftovers, something hastily put together or excerpts of jams. Sometimes this kind of stuff can be brilliant, when you're forced to leave out an excellent song that just doesn't fit the album as a whole, or something you do in a hurry turns out a spontaneous masterpiece, or when you really get off the ground while jamming. Not this time, unfortunately, and as a fan of the band it really pains me to say it.

However, the remarkable thing here is inclusion of the bands rare and brilliant debut EP "Ei ilmestynyt", an unpolished diamond of their original brand of proggy pop/rock. This compilation is worth getting it just for that and who knows if you like the other tracks more than me.

The second CD is Suljettu live, recorded in 2001. It features the whole album with slightly different track order + an older track, a multi-part instrumental "Olen pahoillani" in encore. They have hired an extra session member for guitar and keyboards and manage to make these versions rather faithful to the originals. It's an excellent live recording, but doesn't really add anything to the original album.

Three stars. Two for b-sides and stuff, four for "Ei ilmestynyt" and three for "Suljettu" live rendition.