Satellite Stories: The Kings of Nordic Indie

Scandinavia has been the home to numerous music acts throughout the past decades including Swedish pop, Icelandic alternative, and Finnish metal but few bands have successfully been unique and popular in the indie scene. Perhaps these countries are too relatively small to push forward too many large acts but nevertheless when looking closely, there are diamonds to be found. My personal favorite and one of the more surprisingly successful bands you've never heard of is Finnish indie 4-piece Satellite Stories.

Starting in 2008 this relatively young band has been racking up some odd but impressive accolades throughout their successful career. In August 2012, Satellite Stories were the most blogged about artist in the entire world and just one year later their single "Campfire" was the most blogged about chart single. So what makes this band so good and where did the hype come from?

In their early days Satellite Stories drew many comparisons to Two Door Cinema Club barring upbeat catchy pop indie songs. Imagine you're favorite track by Two Door Cinema Club and now imagine four Finnish teens drinking 5 red bulls each and you have the successful single "Sirens" from 2012.

Although their early days were great, they truly have matured and improved with time. Each album is deeper and more distinct than the last with the latest album "Vagabonds" being by far one of my most listened to albums. Lead singer Esa Mankinen is a gifted melodist and the band are skilled enough for the indie pop scene. Satellite Stories bring phenomenal melodies, in sync musicians, a unique sound, and straight up well written songs and I highly recommend giving them a listen, you will not regret it.

Here are my top 5 songs by them:

1. Sirens: Sirens was the first song I ever heard by the 4-piece and it is one of the best. One of the most upbeat songs out there. Full of energy yet still poise-full and well written.

2. Painted Arms: Starts off slowly and builds to a typical Satellite Stories feel. Driving guitars and funky beats.

3. Campfire: One of the most popular songs by the Oulu teens, not my absolute favorite but well worth the listen.

4. Campus: A slight change of pace for Satellite Stories but extremely catchy and a song you will have on repeat for days.

5. The Trap: The most experimental song by the band but it works exceptionally well. Imagine Two Door Cinema Club meets Skaw. You'll have to listen for yourself.

Check out Satellite Stories on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/satellitestories/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2qRxFU6TyYb3HCMIIq8npH

Check out our facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/FreshPenguins