KINGSTON WALL

The journey ends for a psych-rock luminary.

On 28 June, 1995, Petri Walli climbed to the top of a church tower in Helsinki and jumped to his death. The uber talented guitarist and leader of Kingston Wall was 26 years old.

Bassist Jukka Jylli: "I think that was almost like Petri's solo album, this third one.it was really funny... because we didn't really have any idea what it will be... the result... Petri knew... we just tried to do our best. It was a very different album.Petri thought that the band was going to change somehow after this third album. Well, it changed because we split. I don't know what he actually wanted to do. He did not want to go on like before. So we released the album in autumn 1994 and I met Petri the last time on Christmas Eve, the same year... and then he went to India and after that I never saw him again. He tried to call me but I was not home. I was in the states. Shit happens..." [KW's Jukka Jylli, a brief excerpt from an interview by Scott Heller from Aural Innovations 4/99]

Kingston Wall came together in 1987 when Petri Walli convinced Jukka Jylli (over drinks) to call him back about starting a band. Jukka seemed less than thrilled about the talkative young man at the time but he made that call. Eventually the stars aligned and they picked up one of the most incredible drummer around, Sami Kuoppamaki. After playing live for some time they released their first spirited album in 1992, followed by their personal masterpiece KW2 a year later, and their mystifying swan-song KW3 (aka Trilogy) in 1994. They played their last gig on 6 December, 1994, and split up the next day. It was not clear that it was a permanent split though, perhaps more of a hiatus. Petri traveled to India after that as he was very interested in spiritual things. He is buried in Helsinki's Hietaniemi Cemetery, very close to the church where he took his life. Lyrics from all three albums, written by Walli, contain not-so-veiled messages about the state of his mind and speak openly of death. Some contend that the lyrics for "For All Mankind" from the final album are a suicide note in the form of a song lyric. (see below)

The first KW album is a rather rough and tumble affair. As mentioned, it is a spirited and occasionally fun musical equivalent of a car chase but it is not even in the same universe as the phenomenal second album. KW2 badly pummels the first album in every category you wish to compare: songwriting, playing, overall vision, overall wow-factor. The final album KW3 is somewhere in between from one perspective. But it is so different and bizarre that it's almost impossible to compare. While still retaining some of the psych-jam band glory of the first two album, the 3rd gets downright experimental at times via adventurous songwriting, way-out concepts, electronica, keyboards and sax, and a more studio album approach. The first two albums were essentially recorded live in the studio, often from material already road-tested, whereas the final album was the only true "studio" album according to Jylli. KW3 is an album that will irritate many fans of the second album's approachable, accessible sound. It will rock the boat and was likely intended to push buttons and challenge fans like groups often do when ready for a change. But for those who go in ready and willing for Walli's weirdest moments the album will still reward you.

The band charges furiously out of the gate with "Another Piece of Cake." Petri's very first solo sounds as aggressive and climactic as most album's showcase solo. Sami and Jukka are again as tight and brutal as Chad Smith and Flea. But as the track seques into "Welcome to the Mirrorland it becomes obvious this album is not a repeat of the last one. Strange, spacey loops of odd noises and synth gurgles fill out the landscape with Petri's voice taking on an otherworldy effect. "Take You to Sweet Harmony" embraces a little reggae with groovy echoed guitar wahs and a nice solo. "Get Rid of Your Fears" is a nice spacey guitar experiment with a heavy wall of bass. "Party Goes On" sounds like it indeed, a total psych-out with bizarre voices and instrumental cacophony. "Time" is the only track that sounds a bit serious, a bit sober as it laments the human condition over some laid back mode Hendrix guitar. And then there is "The Real Thing," another epic like "Mushrooms" from the first album, this one a tad leaner at 18 minutes. It's a better track as well, spanning a wide variety of moods and energies from quiet and spacey to balls out rock and roll. Mostly rock and roll with the power trio going for broke on every jam. With the best playing and even a killer long sax solo it is easily the stand-out track and a respectable, fitting farewell track for this amazing little band. The booklet is very cool with lots of cymbals and imagery that Petri was fond of. This is a good album but I still cannot call it essential. Once again I recommend the second album for anyone new to this band and if you like that, then perhaps move on and check out the other two.

As for the controversy about whether the lyrics of "For All Mankind" are Petri's farewell note to humanity, here's a couple lines, judge for yourself: "Look out world it's time to die.no more crying with my mind.when we'll sing no lullabies.and all of us have real eyes.the shaman seeds for all mankind.one day we will say goodbye.to all of them who live the time.no more need to compromise.balanced heart needs no disguise" [P. Walli]

The adventure begins.

Sinkadotentree, one of my many prog gurus at this site, turned me on to KW's buzz a while back, wisely guiding me towards the excellent 2nd album first. Now I think I know why. The first KW album is an exercise in patience, often boring, long-winded, sometimes like nails-on-a-chalkboard frustration to this listener.

First up, the difference in the songwriting quality between KW1 and KW2 is striking. Whereas 2 had some elegant, haunting, perfectly crafted pieces of jamming bliss, KW1 lacks maturity and quite often any discernible focus. To make a comparison to Red Hot Chili Peppers, a band not so far from the KW universe: If KW2 is spiritually comparable to Blood Sugar Sex Magic, then KW1 would probably be The Uplift Mofo Party Plan. I'm not saying I mind craziness, youthful exuberance, or even all out musical debauchery.hell, I love it.if it works. On Kingston Wall-1 it doesn't work for the most part. There are flashes of the juicy steak that will follow on the next album but expect to have your endurance tested to find them. My favorite part of this album is listening to the gonzo-ass skins beating of Sami Kuoppamaki, one of thee finest jam-band drummers you will ever hear. But the songs aren't there and frankly it is Petri who has not caught up with Sami and Jukka at this point. "With My Mind" starts the album in hangover mode as the band sounds a bit lethargic and bleak. Even bassist Jukka complains about lame cover of Hendrix's Fire. Petri was sadly wasting no time dropping the lyrical hints this early of the state of his mind, which would eventually cost him his life. Here he sings "I've got this bad taste in my mouth and in my soul.some kind of tribulation strangles my mind.it makes me wonder do I have much more time." By the time we get to "Waste of Time" and "Nepal" the band has woken up and peaked. Expect some breathtaking fills from Sami and occasional flashes of soul from Petri, but if you compare the best moments here side by side with the next album I think you'll see my point. And that leads us to the 21 minute 8-part super epic "Mushrooms." Close to the Edge it is not. If you can make it through part 7 "More Mushrooms" and get to part 8 "The Answer" you will enjoy one of the album's finer moments, a heavy yet peaceful climax before the fade-out again hinting at better things to come.

I strongly, I repeat, strongly suggest you begin your Kingston Wall adventure with their 2nd album. Depending on the degree of your appreciation for that one, you will know if you need to backtrack to their garage days for KW1, proceed to the "Maharishi moment" of their final album, or stop altogether. Two stars isn't meant as disrespect for the late Mr. Walli, but as my sincere feeling that despite good moments this is not a good album and that it is mostly "for the fans." 2 1/2 stars.

Quick review time. This is a great set of songs. Who are these guys? I want more and I guess based on the ratings of other albums I'll need to do just that! High energy and here's a word you don't get with Prog to often...funky. You have to get this one folks.

I just found another CD for my 45 minute commute.

KW's debut album is their most accessible one. It is very easy to get into and understand, not to take anything away from the music itself. Here the Led Zeppelin/Jimi Hendrix influences are most visible (especially since there is a cover of 'Fire' included) but the playing stays progressive throughout. The album opener "With My Mind" has become a personal favorite of mine, accompanied by such tracks as "Used To Feel Before" and the beautifully moody "Waste Of Time". The rest of the album is evenly good as well, capped off by the 20+ minute "Mushrooms" epic which is split into 8 parts. The whole album has a light 'feel good'-vibe from start to finish, occasionally dipping into the deep and spiritual side.

There is something very mystical about the whole being of Kingston Wall. I believe this can be life changing music, all you really have to do is pay attention. The lyrics seem to have something infinitely wise in them and the playing is top-notch or dare I say, awe- inspiring. All 3 of Kingston Wall's albums are essential but their sound and music would soar to even greater heights later on.

The pinnacle of Kingston Wall's career and what a shame it is that Petri Walli chose to end his life shortly after. The band was truly ahead of it's time, I don't think there were many bands in Finland that played this kind of music or atleast on this level back in the early 90's. Whether it has anything to do with Walli's upcoming suicide, there are suttle dark and brooding vibes noticeable throughout the album. Some say this was Walli's farewell note. Nonetheless the record still has that light and spiritual feel as well. The lyrics (the album actually has 3 sets of lyrics) consist of spiritual and philosophical messages and the album has got plenty of references to the Bock Saga (which the record is somewhat based on). This is truly a record that goes to your soul and through your whole body. Very mystical, very awesome.

Kingston Wall remains an enigma. Their whole story is full of questions and riddles and the only man who might have known what it was all about took the answers with him to the grave. This whole album is a mystery. A great mystery and a great album. I don't know if it's essential as far as progressive rock goes but it definitely wouldn't do anyone any harm to listen to this one thoroughly. There is something powerful here and you can't just point it out. Maybe it's Petri Walli's hope for a better world. Who knows.

Hey Phish and Moe fans! Now THIS is my idea of a jam band!

Another tip of the cap to Sinkadotentree for leading this horse to water (And I drank this time!) The legend that is guitarist Petri Walli doesn't take much effort to appreciate.

Sometimes it's just hard to find the adjectives to do something justice. Kingston is pure fiery rock and roll joy, a burning power trio that is a little bit Dungen, a little Dazed and Confused, a little Hendrix, a little jam band, a little Frusciante, a little pysch flavored magic mushroom music. Or maybe just real rock and roll played with spiritual intensity.

There's no point in a track by track. With the exception of 1 or 2 fairly conventional rock songs (which are still good) every other song is pure jam-rock nirvana. Blissful, soaring, epic lead guitar playing by a true master of the instrument, solid bass that you can actually hear, and monster drum playing. Lather-rinse-repeat. Occasionally some nice acoustic, violin, or sax add icing to the cake. Exceptionally intuitive playing will leave you breathless. Especially "Shine On Me" and "You" which actually make me feel young again if you catch my drift. How many songs do that to you? "Shine On Me" literally makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up, especially when Walli sings "see my future see a dead man." Terribly haunting stuff that stands up with the great epic rock songs. The drumming on here is also unbelievably good, Sami just rolls and pummels with killer instincts.

Petri's singing voice is somewhat limited but this album isn't about the vocals. I'll make this as simple as possible. If you are a fan of Zeppelin, Hendrix, Dungen, Cream, Rush, or any combination thereof, you need to hear Kingston Wall 2. You need to hear it soon. Sadly, Petri took his own life at a young age denying the world of a truly special, gifted songwriter and guitarist. A damn shame. But this is not mopey, depressing music. This music is alive with passion!

A solid 4 stars for me although I completely understand those who gave it 5. I was very close. Essential for guitar rock fans and a clear candidate for one of the top albums of the 90s.

I love this band!This one isn't as spacey and psychedelic as the next one "Tri-logy" ,as that one had synths on it and this one doesn't.But man,talk about guitar driven rock with a psychedelic edge!The production is great too,as you can hear the fantastic bass playing clearly throughout this record.As a matter of fact this three piece band are just amazing players period. "We cannot move" is a melodic song with some wonderful guitar melodies throughout."Istwan" is an instrumental that reminds me of LED ZEPPELIN at times,and features some guest violin playing and some tasteful guitar melodies.This blends into the next song "Could It Be So?",again the guitar playing of Petri is the best part of the song.This has a real a pychedelic feel to it. "And It's All Happening" is an instrumental and one of my favourite songs on the album.Everything is slowed right down and is atmospheric.The guitar playing is so beautiful,he had such a gift.The melody picks up before 3 minutes."Love Tonight" opens with percussion and vocals and we get a full sound 2 minutes in.The sound is heavy and we are treated to some great solos after 4 minutes, and the rest of the song is simply awesome!"Two Of A Kind" is another killer track.It gets better as it goes,with some blistering guitar half way through."I Feel Love" features bass and drums that create an uptempo rhythm as vocals soar overtop.This is like a dance song played by a hard rock band!A real hypnotic beat to this one."Shine On Me" has a bluesy feel to it at times although the bass playing reminded me of RUSH.There is some atmospheric guitar and some nice sax melodies in this slow but powerful tune.The guitar is too beautiful for words!"You" is the longest track,and another favourite.Tempo shifts,vocal melodies and some amazing bass playing in this one.The melody around 6 minutes in rocks and is the best part of the album for me."Palekastro" is an instrumental that hits you in the face right away with a heavy blow.The guitar playing is mind boggling man, and the drumming is world class! Well i may have felt that "Tri-logy" was not quite a masterpiece,but this one definetly is a masterpiece of progressive music!

Now this is and was what Kingston wall was all about!! I really waited this record to be published. Now First the things that are done totally wrong in this album. -FIRST: there is no mentioning from what particular place or/and time any of these recordings taking place -AND SECOND:There are Very poor attempt to mix some song together clearly from two different concerts!!! (This is something I despise)

Oki doki, got that out of my cheast. now the good things... Drumming, guitar playing, Bass playing, overall feeling, attitude, improvisations etc... like I started this is what KW is all about lively jam feeling and going with the flow. they just groove so well! actually this is the album I recomend to listening if there is somebody somewhere who would be interested at this band.

An amazing album. But like the number two there are some dull moments in here. special the ending in this album it's bit boring. and actually I find the worst Kw songs in this album. But I've have to say that in this album Kw is most experimentalistic of their three studio albums with didgeridoos and suchs and this interest me a lot. But biggest minus in this album is the overall sound compered first two studio albums of theirs. This is much too compressed in my taste but that is just my opinion.

On and on this is an exelent piece of space/psykedelic rock from truly a Five star band, wich was at their best in Live Performances.

Exeptional record I must say. And like the first one this just grooves so well. But this one is more composory as the first was more rocking. And to be honest this album is time to time little bit dull to me. I find myself skipping some songs and just tasting the cherrys from the top. Still in this album contains some of the best Kw song in my opinion. But as a hole the first one just did it for me much better.