Finnish nu-soul pioneers Quintessence return for online performance

On May 29th, Quintessence return for a one-off event accompanied by a string orchestra.

It has been 20 years since Quintessence’s debut EP White Light announced to the world their fusion of jazz, hip-hop and late-lounge nu-soul. Their vibrations quickly reached way beyond the country’s borders and onto DJ decks and radio stations worldwide. The band is recognised as directly changing Helsinki’s music landscape.

Lead vocalist Emma Salokoski set the band’s tone with her dreamy-soft style in an ensemble of talents consisting of Verneri Pohjola, Tuomo Prättälä, Aki Haarala, Heikki Laine and Mikko Kaakkuriniemi. The bands’ unique mixture of nu-soul, jazz, funk and Scandinavian cool became the go-to sound for hip bars and cafes.

The classic sound flowed with Talk less Listen More (2002) featuring the ultra dreamy Skywalker and the album 5 A.M. (2004), included killers such as 30th Hour and Friday.

After four albums, Origines (2015) became their final release before heading in solo directions with continued success.

And as youtube commentator Geri Goins accurately wrote:
‘Now, Moonchild is here to pick up where you left off…’.

Quintessence now announce a spectacular comeback with a one-off live-streamed show featuring new arrangements from two albums, complemented by the 10-member string ensemble Vantaan Viihdeorkesteri, conducted by Welsh-born Nick Davies.

The concert is part of the SAVOY JAZZFEST STRIIMI (Savoy Jazz Festival with strings). In its third year, ‘with strings,’ means ensembles of jazz and rhythm music reinforced with strings.

This event will be streamed directly from Savoy Teatteri and promises to be an evening symphony of impressive scale and sound with Finland’s nordic soul founders.