Puupäät

Puupäät are a Finnish rock and folk band originating from Helsinki, Finland. The group was formed in 2000 by a collective of musicians and producers passionate about blending traditional Finnish melodies with contemporary rock arrangements. The name “Puupäät” literally translates to “wooden heads,” reflecting the band’s whimsical approach to songwriting and its fondness for playful, sometimes tongue‑in‑cheek lyrics.

The original lineup consisted of vocalist/accordionist Markku Kukkonen, guitarist and guitarist from The Wasted, bassist Aki Laaksonen, drummer and percussionist Jari Hietala, and keyboardist and sound designer Petri Mäkinen. Over the years the roster has seen a few changes, with trading members often adding new instrumental textures to the band’s repertoire. Musically, Puupäät are known for their energetic live performances, incorporating instruments such as the accordion, violins, and wind blasts, as well as an earnest use of acoustic guitar and polyrhythmic drumming.

Puupäät released their debut album “Pieni Runsaus” in 2002, which showcased their early, raw blending of folk motifs with rock beats. Their second record “Pohjalainen Puu” (2005) received praise for its lyrical depth and a string arrangement that became a staple in their live shows. In 2009 they contributed to a collaborative compilation with the Finnish folk ensemble Fiamma, which increased their visibility in the Scandinavian alternative scene.

The band’s discography includes five solo studio albums between 2002 and 2018, and a handful of EPs and live recordings. While they enjoyed considerable popularity within Finland’s indie rock audience, their songs also found crossover appeal abroad, with vinyl records imported to neighboring Sweden and Norway. Puupäät’s influence is perceived in several emerging Finnish folk‑rock acts that cite the group’s experimental integration of traditional and modern instrumentation as an inspiration.

Puupäät’s last recorded studio album, “Säveljäsen” (2018), is considered a career highlight, featuring collaboration with a string quartet and a more mature lyrical perspective. Following a brief period of inactivity, the group performed a reunion tour in 2023, reaffirming their enduring appeal in the Finnish music community.