Viikate has its roots in the doom metal scene; In the 1990s, brothers Kaarle and Simeoni Viikate formed a band ostensibly to fill a void in the scene following the second breakup of Lijiykomppania. The band’s success came in early 2000 with the addition of Arvo and Ervo Viikate on guitar and bass, respectively. Although the band hails from the Finnish ultra-heavy metal scene, their lyrical content draws heavily from Finnish arthouse films of the 1950s and from folkier, more national artists like Reino Helismaa. Over the years, the band has undergone lineup changes and additions, but they have always remained true to their trademark sound.
Last November, the band released their 15th album, “Hiljainen,” which is a bit more subdued than their previous works. In support of the album, the band toured Finland on a theater tour. 2026 will mark Viikate’s 30th anniversary, and they’re planning something special to mark the occasion.
We had the chance to meet Kaarle before their show at Porispere and learn more about their latest album, the songwriting process, the lineup changes, and much more.
