Joldanka Patrol
Self-Released, 2022
9/10
A Finnish surf rock outfit consisting of Mika Jämsä (lead guitar), Rasmus Tammik (rhythm guitar), Mauri Haapamäki (bass guitar), and Janne Torvikoski (drums), as Eldanka they pen a dozen diverse and exciting instrumental tunes for this 3rd album.
“Descanso” open the listen with a warm Spanish groove that showcases the meticulous guitars amid the frisky drums, and it isn’t long until the title track enters with firm surf rock prowess that seems like it could soundtrack a spy movie.
Halfway through, the galloping drums of “Outlander” help the tune flirt with cowboy rock, while “Le Parc (L.A.- Streethawk)” recruits a charming and unpredictable sci-fi angle that’s dreamy and uses wordless vocals.
Residing near the end, “The Bog (Cantus Arcticus)” flows with plenty of garage rock nods amid the melodic, swirling guitars and crisp drumming, and “A Message From Alderaan” exits with strong attention to mood, where a hazy ambience unfolds with post-rock moments of intimacy.
It really isn’t a stretch to say that Eldanka are one of Europe’s best instrumental bands, as each member brings a wealth of talent to a surf template that’s not afraid to venture into other areas which adds much more intrigue to the equation.
Travels well with: The Neptunas- Mermaid A Go Go; The Fleshtones- Face Of The Screaming Werewolf