THE EDITED PRESS RELEASE: “Bad Choices is a half-hour journey into the world of high-speed rockers Rokets. The songs tell stories of anxiety, oppression, horror movies, the long arm of the law, possessive cats, last calls, predators and the inevitable end. High-flying solos, crushing riffs, exquisite guitar melodies and striking choruses topped off with a rock-solid rhythm section make sure there’s no lack of speed or dangerous encounters on this trip.
Known as a ferocious and electric live act, Rokets are a rocking and rolling band from Helsinki, Finland. They’ve spread the word about their fast, furious brand of rock ’n’ roll through constant live shows around the Nordic and Baltic states since their formation in 2017.
“The band’s founding member Jaani called me in 2017 and asked if I’d like to join a band playing fast-paced rock in the vein of The Hellacopters and such,” recalls singer Sami Mustonen. “Sounded like something to give a go at, even though I wasn’t all that much into rock ’n’ roll at the time, rather than some good ol’ heavy metal. Nevertheless, I’m very happy I did.
“In the beginning we had only a handful of songs and played some Motörhead and Hurriganes covers on the side. Sakke (Väntinen) our guitarist, kept bringing new songs to every single rehearsal, so we got ready to do some live shows pretty soon after we started. Been down that road ever since.”
Rokets rose rapidly to the surface of international rock circles when their highly praised EP Speed & Sound was released in 2019 on a limited vinyl pressing, which sold out in a heartbeat. The debut album Fast Times was recorded in Stockholm at Robert Pehrsson’s Studio Humbucker, pouring more gasoline in the flames. Their sophomore album Break Free reached even further and beyond, with Rokets playing to sold-out venues and festivals.
Rokets have gone through some line up changes in the past, but the recent, road-tested group of jolly good fellows includes Mustonen (vocals), Väntinen, Elias Laurila (guitar), Lauri Lyytinen (bass) and Otto Bigler (drums). The members are known from playing in more-or-less underground acts United Seafood, Green King, Tryer, Rusty Triggers, Lazer Sleep and Black Lizard. Each one has a distinct musical past ranging from heavy metal to hardcore, which has shaped the music and sound of Rokets over the years.”
