pitkäsoitot

Pitkäsoitot is a Finnish term that translates to "long plays" or "albums" in English. It refers to a musical recording of extended duration, typically containing multiple songs or musical pieces. Historically, the term evolved from the early days of vinyl records, where longer playing times compared to single records became desirable for artists to present a more cohesive body of work.

In the context of music consumption, pitkäsoitot are the primary format for releasing and experiencing albums. They allow artists to explore themes, develop narratives, and showcase a broader range of their musical abilities than is possible on shorter formats like singles or EPs. The concept of a pitkäsoitto encompasses various genres and styles, from classical music suites to rock concept albums and jazz improvisations.

The term also carries a cultural significance in Finland, often associated with dedicated listening experiences and the appreciation of an artist's complete artistic vision. Owning and listening to pitkäsoitot was, and for many still is, a way to engage deeply with music. While digital formats have changed how music is consumed, the concept of the album as a pitkäsoitto remains a fundamental part of the music industry and listener experience. The term is widely understood and used by Finnish music enthusiasts and professionals.