5 Questions with Pertti Kurikka’s Name Day – The band from “The PunkSyndrome” Film
We first brought these guys to your attention with our recommendation of “The Punk Syndrome” at SXSW this year. We decided to do a follow-up 5 Questions with the guys so we could learn more about them.
The band, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät (Pertti Kurikka’s Name Day) will be playing at Headhunters Patio on March 15th.
1. How did the band originally form?
The band was formed in the end of 2008. Pertti has been a big fan of punk rock over 30 years. He never had his own punk rock band. It was talked about for several years that Pertti should have a band that plays his kind of music. The bands guys work in a music / culture workshop. It’s a workshop for disabled adults.
In 2008 a feature film director asked the workshop if we have a band for a certain scene for his movie. The band had to have attitude. That was the final call for Pertti! Pertti is the guitar player and composer/lyricist. Kari was chosen to be the lead vocalist/lyricist because of his great voice and angry appearance. He has a lot to say. Toni is great, fast drummer who can keep the beat. And Sami, everybody needs a commander with a steady pulse.
2. Have they made another record?
The band has released three vinyl 7″ EP’s, one cassette EP and one compilation album on CD and LP. It has every released song so far plus two previously unreleased songs. There’s going to be at least one single (maybe an EP later) this year.
3. What, if any, problems did you face during shooting?
We had no problems during the shootings! We didn’t mind the cameras
4. Has the film raised awareness of the band?
The film has raised awareness. People recognize us on the streets etc. but we don’t mind! The gigs are almost always sold out. Our album was on the charts for five weeks. It was the 17th at the highest. We wouldn’t be so popular without the film!
5. Any special plans for SXSW (please tell us they are playing)?
Not any special plans! We’re going to see american culture and Texas!
We play on Friday the 15th at 11.35PM. Headhunters Patio. See you there!