 ”I’ve been thinking hard about this solution for a couple of months now and I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m not the right person to stay in the band. This decision is both difficult and easy at the same time. I like all you guys terribly much and it feels bad to give that up, but on the other hand, my decision makes things easier. The reasons are plentiful, but the biggest one is lack of motivation. I can’t find reasons to continue anymore and therefore my staying would be wrong for the other guys. After the last album, I’ve run out of steam. I can’t concentrate and push the band anymore. At the moment, I feel more like an anchor than a propeller in the band. Some discussions we’ve had lately about the band’s musical direction also affected my decision. Playing has felt more like a technical exercise than fun, which I think is necessary, maybe this is because I am not a good enough player for this kind of music and, therefore, I get frustrated as I don’t get what I need out of the music. I need a different musical feeling, more aggression and more darkness... maybe drama is a better word. I miss the feeling I get when I listen to, for example, tango or classical music. Dynamics and emotion. Rage mixed with tenderness. Strong contrasts. Finally: Thank You, Rami – for the opportunity to be in this band. Keep doing what you believe, for you’re good at it! Thank You, Erkki – I’ve never met a singer so pleasant and easy-going, who sounds so fucking great! Thanks Akseli and Seppo – I still get a smile every time I hear your solos on Phoenix. You’re the best dynamic-duo that I know! And Thank You, Arto – It was magnificent that the band got a drummer, who plays with a great touch, not just mathematical precision. And thanks for returning a bad sense of humour into the band! All the Best,”
Pasi Ristolainen, |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
||||||
|
||||||