The Samurai of Prog: Live

Long awaited live concerts, coming in 2026.

The Samurai of Prog: Live

Long awaited live concerts, coming in 2026.

The Samurai of Prog

"Captivating progressive storytelling of the
highest musical order"

The Samurai of Prog: Live

Long awaited live concerts, coming in 2026.
For the first time ever, The Samurai of Prog is planning to give live concerts on 2026.
 
We will start with couple concerts in Finland at spring 2026.
 
After that we will head for a tour in Europe.  More details will be announced later.
 
Although still very active with the Samurai of Prog releases, Marco Bernard doesn't play live anymore. Kimmo tried to change his mind for 15 years—unfortunately, no luck.
 
However, some time ago, both agreed that Jan-Olof Strandberg would take care of the live duties on bass, being in The Samurai of Prog cast all the way since the first album. All other musicians have an extensive history in The Samurai of Prog's project as well.
 
 
Steve Unruh stepped away as a member of The Samurai of Prog a couple of years ago. Steve remains a good friend of ours, and when the time allows, we still make music together. There is a small chance that Steve might join the live project, but there are so many obstacles to overcome that no promises whatsoever can be made.
 
For the first time ever, The Samurai of Prog is planning to give live concerts on 2026. We will start with couple concerts in Finland at spring 2026. After that we will head for a tour in Europe.  More details will be announced later.
 
Although still very active with the Samurai of Prog releases, Marco Bernard doesn't play live anymore. Kimmo tried to change his mind for 15 years—unfortunately, no luck. However, some time ago, both agreed that Jan-Olof Strandberg would take care of the live duties on bass, being in The Samurai of Prog cast all the way since the first album. All other musicians have an extensive history in The Samurai of Prog's projects as well.
 
 
Steve Unruh stepped away as a member of The Samurai of Prog a couple of years ago. Steve remains a good friend of ours, and when the time allows, we still make music together. There is a small chance that Steve might join the live project, but there are so many obstacles to overcome that no promises whatsoever can be made.
 
For the first time ever, The Samurai of Prog is planning to give live concerts on 2026. We will start with couple concerts in Finland at spring 2026. After that we will head for a tour in Europe.  More details will be announced later.
 
Although still very active with the Samurai of Prog releases, Marco Bernard doesn't play live anymore. Kimmo tried to change his mind for 15 years—unfortunately, no luck. However, some time ago, both agreed that Jan-Olof Strandberg would take care of the live duties on bass, being in The Samurai of Prog cast all the way since the first album. All other musicians have an extensive history in The Samurai of Prog's project as well.
 
 
Steve Unruh stepped away as a member of The Samurai of Prog a couple of years ago. Steve remains a good friend of ours, and when the time allows, we still make music together. There is a small chance that Steve might join the live project, but there are so many obstacles to overcome that no promises whatsoever can be made.
 

Line-up for the live project

Line-up for the live project

Marco Grieco, keyboards

 

Marco Grieco, born in Salerno in 1967, is a composer, author, director, writer, singer, multi-

instrumentalist, videomaker, and virtual set designer.

 

Between 2003 and 2004, together with his brother Massimo, he wrote and composed the music for the first musical based on Homer's Odyssey, "Odissea the Musical." This musical received widespread recognition, and in 2007, Grieco won the "Charlot" award for his composition. In 2008, "Odissea the Musical" premiered on Second Life, gaining significant media coverage and was later performed in major Italian theaters.

 

In 2009, he released the album "Il Pianeta Degli Uomini Liberi," distributing it worldwide. During that period, he received further recognition with his remixes of tracks by Peter Gabriel, Joy, and Angélique Kidjo, which topped the Real World Remixed charts in England.

 

The musical "Roma Caput Mundi the Eternal Musical" debuted in 2010 and received acclaim abroad as well. Since 2011, Grieco has composed music and co-written lyrics for various musicals such as "Homo Sapiens," "Cave Of Spirits," "Il Mercante di Venezia," and "Dante's Inferno".

 

In 2020, he released a new progressive rock album, "Nothing Personal," He has also released 4 CDs of his compositions as a singer-songwriter since 2000. In September 2024, he released the album Spillover, recorded using innovative holophonic techniques, with the group M.E.N.

 

Marco’s work with The Samurai of Prog has been very intense; he has composed the music entirely for the highly acclaimed albums "Anthem to the Phoenix Star", "A Quiet Town" and "The Time Machine".

 

Watch now: Marco Grieco Looney Tunes
Marco Grieco, keyboards

 

Marco Grieco, born in Salerno in 1967, is a composer, author, director, writer, singer, multi-

instrumentalist, videomaker, and virtual set designer.

 

Between 2003 and 2004, together with his brother Massimo, he wrote and composed the music for the first musical based on Homer's Odyssey, "Odissea the Musical." This musical received widespread recognition, and in 2007, Grieco won the "Charlot" award for his composition. In 2008, "Odissea the Musical" premiered on Second Life, gaining significant media coverage and was later performed in major Italian theaters.

 

In 2009, he released the album "Il Pianeta Degli Uomini Liberi," distributing it worldwide. During that period, he received further recognition with his remixes of tracks by Peter Gabriel, Joy, and Angélique Kidjo, which topped the Real World Remixed charts in England.

 

The musical "Roma Caput Mundi the Eternal Musical" debuted in 2010 and received acclaim abroad as well. Since 2011, Grieco has composed music and co-written lyrics for various musicals such as "Homo Sapiens," "Cave Of Spirits," "Il Mercante di Venezia," and "Dante's Inferno".

 

In 2020, he released a new progressive rock album, "Nothing Personal," He has also released 4 CDs of his compositions as a singer-songwriter since 2000. In September 2024, he released the album Spillover, recorded using innovative holophonic techniques, with the group M.E.N.

 

Marco’s work with The Samurai of Prog has been very intense; he has composed the music entirely for the highly acclaimed albums "Anthem to the Phoenix Star", "A Quiet Town" and "The Time Machine".

 

Watch now: Marco Grieco Looney Tunes
Toni Jokinen (a.k.a Tony Riveryman), guitars

 

Toni studied guitar in Kauhajoen opisto in the 90’s. Between 2006-2017 he was a professional musician in the band ”Dreams”.

 

Toni has released two solo albums in the French Musea label: "Magic World" (2009) and "Views, Fears and Stories" (2018) as Tony Riveryman.

 

He has composed and played guitar in You Tube series: "G Series World Collaborations" he created with Jukka Turunen. Series have featured for example: Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake), Marco Sfogli (PFM), Brett Carsed (Planet X) etc…

 

Besides The Samurai of Prog, Toni has collaborated with United Progressive Fraternity in the Planetary Overload part 2 Hope album. 

 

Watch now: The Samurai of Prog - The Solution (part 2), guitar solo by Tony Riveryman
Toni Jokinen (a.k.a Tony Riveryman), guitars

 

Toni studied guitar in Kauhajoen opisto in the 90’s. Between 2006-2017 he was a professional musician in the band ”Dreams”.

 

Toni has released two solo albums in the French Musea label: "Magic World" (2009) and "Views, Fears and Stories" (2018) as Tony Riveryman.

 

He has composed and played guitar in You Tube series: "G Series World Collaborations" he created with Jukka Turunen. Series have featured for example: Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake), Marco Sfogli (PFM), Brett Carsed (Planet X) etc…

 

Besides The Samurai of Prog, Toni has collaborated with United Progressive Fraternity in the Planetary Overload part 2 Hope album. 

 

Watch now: The Samurai of Prog - The Solution (part 2), guitar solo by Tony Riveryman
Risto Salmi, saxes, EWI, recorder

 

Risto studied between 1984-87 in the Military Music School and between 1987-1992 in the Jazz-Department of Sibelius- Academy.

 

He is a seasoned professional who has worked for example with Riku Niemi Orchestra, Ricky Tick Big Band, UMO, Lahti Sinfonia, The Spirit of New Orleans/ Leroy Jones, Helsinki City Theatre, Finnish National Theatre, Luna Nova/Timo Alakotila, Ilkka Alanko Orchestra, Aija Puurtinen, Risto Asikainen etc.

 

Besides live music, Risto has worked for Finnish Broadcasting Company in radioshows and played in many Finnish TV shows and movies.

 

Risto has played in over 70 albums, for example with the following artists: CMX, Samuli Edelmann, Jorma Kääriäinen, Carita Holmström, Tomi Markkola, Heidi Kyrö, Savo Military BB featuring Randy Brecker and Osuuskuntaorkesteri featuring Ismo Alanko.

 

In addition of performing in the big Finnish music festivals, Risto has also performed internationally, for example in Waheke Island (New Zealand), I love jazz (Brazil) and Fidzi International Jazz Festival.

Watch now: Paidarion - Magician's Departure
Risto Salmi, saxes, EWI, recorder

 

Risto studied between 1984-87 in the Military Music School and between 1987-1992 in the Jazz-Department of Sibelius- Academy.

 

He is a seasoned professional who has worked for example with Riku Niemi Orchestra, Ricky Tick Big Band, UMO, Lahti Sinfonia, The Spirit of New Orleans/ Leroy Jones, Helsinki City Theatre, Finnish National Theatre, Luna Nova/Timo Alakotila, Ilkka Alanko Orchestra, Aija Puurtinen, Risto Asikainen etc.

 

Besides live music, Risto has worked for Finnish Broadcasting Company in radioshows and played in many Finnish TV shows and movies.

 

Risto has played in over 70 albums, for example with the following artists: CMX, Samuli Edelmann, Jorma Kääriäinen, Carita Holmström, Tomi Markkola, Heidi Kyrö, Savo Military BB featuring Randy Brecker and Osuuskuntaorkesteri featuring Ismo Alanko.

 

In addition of performing in the big Finnish music festivals, Risto has also performed internationally, for example in Waheke Island (New Zealand), I love jazz (Brazil) and Fidzi International Jazz Festival.

Watch now: Paidarion - Magician's Departure
Bona Sandström, vocals

 

Bona Sandström is a charismatic and versatile rock vocalist whose passion for progressive rock has made him a unique voice on the Nordic music scene.

 

He has starred in and produced Pink Floyd’s iconic rock opera The Wall, where his portrayal of Pink received acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

 

As a visionary artist, Sandström is renowned for creating powerful, immersive concept concerts that seamlessly blend music, storytelling, and visual artistry into unforgettable experiences.

 

With a background in classical guitar, he brings a depth and technical virtuosity to his performances that perfectly complement his rock persona.

 

Watch now: Rock Theatre: Lamia (Genesis cover)
Bona Sandström, vocals

 

Bona Sandström is a charismatic and versatile rock vocalist whose passion for progressive rock has made him a unique voice on the Nordic music scene.

 

He has starred in and produced Pink Floyd’s iconic rock opera The Wall, where his portrayal of Pink received acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

 

As a visionary artist, Sandström is renowned for creating powerful, immersive concept concerts that seamlessly blend music, storytelling, and visual artistry into unforgettable experiences.

 

With a background in classical guitar, he brings a depth and technical virtuosity to his performances that perfectly complement his rock persona.

 

Watch now: Lamia (Genesis cover)
Jan-Olof Strandberg, bass

 

Jan-Olof Strandberg is a renowned Finnish bassist with a career spanning several decades.

 

He studied at the Oulunkylä Pop/Jazz Conservatory (electric bass) and later at the Helsinki Conservatory, focusing on upright bass.

 

Over the years, Strandberg has collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including Rauli Badding Somerjoki, Jukka Tolonen, and Jukka Gustavson. His solo career took off in the mid-1990s, with his debut album "At The Music Box" released in 1995.

 

He has recorded multiple albums and toured internationally (USA, Japan, South Korea, UK, The Netherlands etc). Strandberg is also known for his innovative approach to bass guitar design, having co-developed the Strandberg Signature semi-acoustic bass.

 

Between 2004-2007 he was a member of ”The Fusion Project” – led by Mel Gaynor (Simple Minds).

 

His current projects include the Strandberg Project, which brings together talented musicians from around the world - for example Ida Nielsen (Prince), Armand Sabal-Lecco (Paul Simon, Al Di Meola) and Paul Jackson (Herbie Hancock) - to create dynamic and progressive music from different genres.

Watch now:  Jukka Gustavson & Street Level feat. Ben Granfelt
Jan-Olof Strandberg, bass

 

Jan-Olof Strandberg is a renowned Finnish bassist with a career spanning several decades.

 

He studied at the Oulunkylä Pop/Jazz Conservatory (electric bass) and later at the Helsinki Conservatory, focusing on upright bass.

 

Over the years, Strandberg has collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including Rauli Badding Somerjoki, Jukka Tolonen, and Jukka Gustavson. His solo career took off in the mid-1990s, with his debut album "At The Music Box" released in 1995.

 

He has recorded multiple albums and toured internationally (USA, Japan, South Korea, UK, The Netherlands etc). Strandberg is also known for his innovative approach to bass guitar design, having co-developed the Strandberg Signature semi-acoustic bass.

 

Between 2004-2007 he was a member of ”The Fusion Project” – led by Mel Gaynor (Simple Minds).

 

His current projects include the Strandberg Project, which brings together talented musicians from around the world - for example Ida Nielsen (Prince), Armand Sabal-Lecco (Paul Simon, Al Di Meola) and Paul Jackson (Herbie Hancock) - to create dynamic and progressive music from different genres.

Watch now: Jukka Gustavson & Street Level fear. Ben Granfelt - A Moment of Madness
Kimmo Pörsti, drums

 

Kimmo studied piano and drums in the 70’s. Between 1982 and 1988 Kimmo worked with Mika Syväniemi for the Finnish Broadcasting Company Yleisradio, making music for many TV programs.

 

In 1986, Kimmos group Minea won a nation-wide Starchase competition, the prize being a recording contract. In 2004, Kimmo co-founded the prog/fusion group Mist Season, which released 3 albums.

 

With Jan-Olof Strandberg Kimmo formed Paidarion in 2009.

 

In 2009 Kimmo received a phone call from Marco Bernard as he asked if Kimmo could play drums for Marco's Samurai of Prog for a an Italian tribute album. It has been an intense co-operation ever since.

 

In the early 2020's it was time to form a project combining folk music and medieval music with progressive rock: ”The Guildmaster” with Rafael Pacha, Marco Bernard and Ton Scherpenzeel (Camel, Kayak).

 

Besides recording 3 solo albums: ”Maahinen: Ihmeellinen Iltapäivä” (1997), Wayfarer (2020) and Past And Present (2021), Kimmo has recorded 2 albums with the Spanish multi-instrumentalist Rafael Pacha.

 

Overall, Kimmo has played in over 70 releases; besides Finland also in Italian, Spanish and French albums. 18 of the albums include his compositions.

Watch now: 
Paidarion - Trapeze (live)
Kimmo Pörsti, drums

 

Kimmo studied piano and drums in the 70’s. Between 1982 and 1988 Kimmo worked with Mika Syväniemi for the Finnish Broadcasting Company Yleisradio, making music for many TV programs.

 

In 1986, Kimmos group Minea won a nation-wide Starchase competition, the prize being a recording contract. In 2004, Kimmo co-founded the prog/fusion group Mist Season, which released 3 albums.

 

With Jan-Olof Strandberg Kimmo formed Paidarion in 2009.

 

In 2009 Kimmo received a phone call from Marco Bernard as he asked if Kimmo could play drums for Marco's Samurai of Prog for a an Italian tribute album. It has been an intense co-operation ever since.

 

In the early 2020's it was time to form a project combining folk music and medieval music with progressive rock: ”The Guildmaster” with Rafael Pacha, Marco Bernard and Ton Scherpenzeel (Camel, Kayak).

 

Besides recording 3 solo albums: ”Maahinen: Ihmeellinen Iltapäivä” (1997), Wayfarer (2020) and Past And Present (2021), Kimmo has recorded 2 albums with the Spanish multi-instrumentalist Rafael Pacha.

 

Overall, Kimmo has played in over 70 releases; besides Finland also in Italian, Spanish and French albums. 18 of the albums include his compositions.

Watch now: 
Paidarion - Trapeze (live)

Contact

For bookings and other inquiries, contact:

info(at)seacrestoy.com

 

 

info(at)seacrestoy.com

 

 
Marco Grieco, keyboards

 

Marco Grieco, born in Salerno in 1967, is a composer, author, director, writer, singer, multi-

instrumentalist, videomaker, and virtual set designer.

 

Between 2003 and 2004, together with his brother Massimo, he wrote and composed the music for the first musical based on Homer's Odyssey, "Odissea the Musical." This musical received widespread recognition, and in 2007, Grieco won the "Charlot" award for his composition. In 2008, "Odissea the Musical" premiered on Second Life, gaining significant media coverage and was later performed in major Italian theaters.

 

In 2009, he released the album "Il Pianeta Degli Uomini Liberi," distributing it worldwide. During that period, he received further recognition with his remixes of tracks by Peter Gabriel, Joy, and Angélique Kidjo, which topped the Real World Remixed charts in England.

 

The musical "Roma Caput Mundi the Eternal Musical" debuted in 2010 and received acclaim abroad as well. Since 2011, Grieco has composed music and co-written lyrics for various musicals such as "Homo Sapiens," "Cave Of Spirits," "Il Mercante di Venezia," and "Dante's Inferno".

 

In 2020, he released a new progressive rock album, "Nothing Personal," He has also released 4 CDs of his compositions as a singer-songwriter since 2000. In September 2024, he released the album Spillover, recorded using innovative holophonic techniques, with the group M.E.N.

 

Marco’s work with The Samurai of Prog has been very intense; he has composed the music entirely for the highly acclaimed albums "Anthem to the Phoenix Star", "A Quiet Town" and "The Time Machine".

Marco Grieco, keyboards

 

Marco Grieco, born in Salerno in 1967, is a composer, author, director, writer, singer, multi-

instrumentalist, videomaker, and virtual set designer.

 

Between 2003 and 2004, together with his brother Massimo, he wrote and composed the music for the first musical based on Homer's Odyssey, "Odissea the Musical." This musical received widespread recognition, and in 2007, Grieco won the "Charlot" award for his composition. In 2008, "Odissea the Musical" premiered on Second Life, gaining significant media coverage and was later performed in major Italian theaters.

 

In 2009, he released the album "Il Pianeta Degli Uomini Liberi," distributing it worldwide. During that period, he received further recognition with his remixes of tracks by Peter Gabriel, Joy, and Angélique Kidjo, which topped the Real World Remixed charts in England.

 

The musical "Roma Caput Mundi the Eternal Musical" debuted in 2010 and received acclaim abroad as well. Since 2011, Grieco has composed music and co-written lyrics for various musicals such as "Homo Sapiens," "Cave Of Spirits," "Il Mercante di Venezia," and "Dante's Inferno".

 

In 2020, he released a new progressive rock album, "Nothing Personal," He has also released 4 CDs of his compositions as a singer-songwriter since 2000. In September 2024, he released the album Spillover, recorded using innovative holophonic techniques, with the group M.E.N.

 

Marco’s work with The Samurai of Prog has been very intense; he has composed the music entirely for the highly acclaimed albums "Anthem to the Phoenix Star", "A Quiet Town" and "The Time Machine".

 

Watch now: Marco Grieco Looney Tunes
Toni Jokinen (a.k.a Tony Riveryman), guitars

 

Toni studied guitar in Kauhajoen opisto in the 90’s. Between 2006-2017 he was a professional musician in the band ”Dreams”.

 

Toni has released two solo albums in the French Musea label: "Magic World" (2009) and "Views, Fears and Stories" (2018) as Tony Riveryman.

 

He has composed and played guitar in You Tube series: "G Series World Collaborations" he created with Jukka Turunen. Series have featured for example: Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake), Marco Sfogli (PFM), Brett Carsed (Planet X) etc…

 

Besides The Samurai of Prog, Toni has collaborated with United Progressive Fraternity in the Planetary Overload part 2 Hope album. 

 

Watch now: The Samurai of Prog - The Solution (part 2), guitar solo by Tony Riveryman
Toni Jokinen (a.k.a Tony Riveryman), guitars

 

Toni studied guitar in Kauhajoen opisto in the 90’s. Between 2006-2017 he was a professional musician in the band ”Dreams”.

 

Toni has released two solo albums in the French Musea label: "Magic World" (2009) and "Views, Fears and Stories" (2018) as Tony Riveryman.

 

He has composed and played guitar in You Tube series: "G Series World Collaborations" he created with Jukka Turunen. Series have featured for example: Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake), Marco Sfogli (PFM), Brett Carsed (Planet X) etc…

 

Besides The Samurai of Prog, Toni has collaborated with United Progressive Fraternity in the Planetary Overload part 2 Hope album. 

 

Watch now: The Samurai of Prog - The Solution (part 2), guitar solo by Tony Riveryman
Risto Salmi, saxes, EWI, recorder

 

Risto studied between 1984-87 in the Military Music School and between 1987-1992 in the Jazz-Department of Sibelius- Academy.

 

He is a seasoned professional who has worked for example with Riku Niemi Orchestra, Ricky Tick Big Band, UMO, Lahti Sinfonia, The Spirit of New Orleans/ Leroy Jones, Helsinki City Theatre, Finnish National Theatre, Luna Nova/Timo Alakotila, Ilkka Alanko Orchestra, Aija Puurtinen, Risto Asikainen etc.

 

Besides live music, Risto has worked for Finnish Broadcasting Company in radioshows and played in many Finnish TV shows and movies.

 

Risto has played in over 70 albums, for example with the following artists: CMX, Samuli Edelman, Jorma Kääriäinen, Carita Holmström, Tomi Markkola, Heidi Kyrö, Savo Military BB featuring Randy Brecker and Osuuskuntaorkesteri featuring Ismo Alanko.

 

In addition of performing in the big Finnish music festivals, Risto has also performed internationally, for example in Waheke Island (New Zealand), I love jazz (Brazil) and Fidzi International Jazz Festival.

Watch now: Paidarion - Magician's Departure
Risto Salmi, saxes, EWI, recorder

 

Risto studied between 1984-87 in the Military Music School and between 1987-1992 in the Jazz-Department of Sibelius- Academy.

 

He is a seasoned professional who has worked for example with Riku Niemi Orchestra, Ricky Tick Big Band, UMO, Lahti Sinfonia, The Spirit of New Orleans/ Leroy Jones, Helsinki City Theatre, Finnish National Theatre, Luna Nova/Timo Alakotila, Ilkka Alanko Orchestra, Aija Puurtinen, Risto Asikainen etc.

 

Besides live music, Risto has worked for Finnish Broadcasting Company in radioshows and played in many Finnish TV shows and movies.

 

Risto has played in over 70 albums, for example with the following artists: CMX, Samuli Edelmann, Jorma Kääriäinen, Carita Holmström, Tomi Markkola, Heidi Kyrö, Savo Military BB featuring Randy Brecker and Osuuskuntaorkesteri featuring Ismo Alanko.

 

In addition of performing in the big Finnish music festivals, Risto has also performed internationally, for example in Waheke Island (New Zealand), I love jazz (Brazil) and Fidzi International Jazz Festival.

Watch now: Paidarion - Magician's Departure
Bona Sandström, vocals

 

Bona Sandström is a charismatic and versatile rock vocalist whose passion for progressive rock has made him a unique voice on the Nordic music scene.

 

He has starred in and produced Pink Floyd’s iconic rock opera The Wall, where his portrayal of Pink received acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

 

As a visionary artist, Sandström is renowned for creating powerful, immersive concept concerts that seamlessly blend music, storytelling, and visual artistry into unforgettable experiences.

 

With a background in classical guitar, he brings a depth and technical virtuosity to his performances that perfectly complement his rock persona.

 

Watch now: Rock Theatre plays Genesis 1970-77 - The Musical Box
Bona Sandström, vocals

 

Bona Sandström is a charismatic and versatile rock vocalist whose passion for progressive rock has made him a unique voice on the Nordic music scene.

 

He has starred in and produced Pink Floyd’s iconic rock opera The Wall, where his portrayal of Pink received acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.

 

As a visionary artist, Sandström is renowned for creating powerful, immersive concept concerts that seamlessly blend music, storytelling, and visual artistry into unforgettable experiences.

 

With a background in classical guitar, he brings a depth and technical virtuosity to his performances that perfectly complement his rock persona.

 

Watch now: Lamia (Genesis cover)
Jan-Olof Strandberg, bass

 

Jan-Olof Strandberg is a renowned Finnish bassist with a career spanning several decades.

 

He studied at the Oulunkylä Pop/Jazz Conservatory (electric bass) and later at the Helsinki Conservatory, focusing on upright bass.

 

Over the years, Strandberg has collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including Rauli Badding Somerjoki, Jukka Tolonen, and Jukka Gustavson. His solo career took off in the mid-1990s, with his debut album "At The Music Box" released in 1995.

 

He has recorded multiple albums and toured internationally (USA, Japan, South Korea, UK, The Netherlands etc). Strandberg is also known for his innovative approach to bass guitar design, having co-developed the Strandberg Signature semi-acoustic bass.

 

Between 2004-2007 he was a member of ”The Fusion Project” – led by Mel Gaynor (Simple Minds).

 

His current projects include the Strandberg Project, which brings together talented musicians from around the world - for example Ida Nielsen (Prince), Armand Sabal-Lecco (Paul Simon, Al Di Meola) and Paul Jackson (Herbie Hancock) - to create dynamic and progressive music from different genres.

Watch now: Jan-Olof Strandberg & Armand Sabal-Lecco - Live in Finland
Jan-Olof Strandberg, bass

 

Jan-Olof Strandberg is a renowned Finnish bassist with a career spanning several decades.

 

He studied at the Oulunkylä Pop/Jazz Conservatory (electric bass) and later at the Helsinki Conservatory, focusing on upright bass.

 

Over the years, Strandberg has collaborated with numerous artists and bands, including Rauli Badding Somerjoki, Jukka Tolonen, and Jukka Gustavson. His solo career took off in the mid-1990s, with his debut album "At The Music Box" released in 1995.

 

He has recorded multiple albums and toured internationally (USA, Japan, South Korea, UK, The Netherlands etc). Strandberg is also known for his innovative approach to bass guitar design, having co-developed the Strandberg Signature semi-acoustic bass.

 

Between 2004-2007 he was a member of ”The Fusion Project” – led by Mel Gaynor (Simple Minds).

 

His current projects include the Strandberg Project, which brings together talented musicians from around the world - for example Ida Nielsen (Prince), Armand Sabal-Lecco (Paul Simon, Al Di Meola) and Paul Jackson (Herbie Hancock) - to create dynamic and progressive music from different genres.

Watch now: Jukka Gustavson & Street Level fear. Ben Granfelt - A Moment of Madness
Kimmo Pörsti, drums

 

Kimmo studied piano and drums in the 70’s. Between 1982 and 1988 Kimmo worked with Mika Syväniemi for the Finnish Broadcasting Company Yleisradio, making music for many TV programs.

 

In 1986, Kimmos group Minea won a nation-wide Starchase competition, the prize being a recording contract. In 2004, Kimmo co-founded the prog/fusion group Mist Season, which released 3 albums.

 

With Jan-Olof Strandberg Kimmo formed Paidarion in 2009.

 

In 2009 Kimmo received a phone call from Marco Bernard as he asked if Kimmo could play drums for Marco's Samurai of Prog for a an Italian tribute album. It has been an intense co-operation ever since.

 

In the early 2020's it was time to form a project combining folk music and medieval music with progressive rock: ”The Guildmaster” with Rafael Pacha, Marco Bernard and Ton Scherpenzeel (Camel, Kayak).

 

Besides recording 3 solo albums: ”Maahinen: Ihmeellinen Iltapäivä” (1997), Wayfarer (2020) and Past And Present (2021), Kimmo has recorded 2 albums with the Spanish multi-instrumentalist Rafael Pacha.

 

Overall, Kimmo has played in over 70 releases; besides Finland also in Italian, Spanish and French albums. 18 of the albums include his compositions.

Watch now: 
Paidarion - Trapeze (live)
Kimmo Pörsti, drums

 

Kimmo studied piano and drums in the 70’s. Between 1982 and 1988 Kimmo worked with Mika Syväniemi for the Finnish Broadcasting Company Yleisradio, making music for many TV programs.

 

In 1986, Kimmos group Minea won a nation-wide Starchase competition, the prize being a recording contract. In 2004, Kimmo co-founded the prog/fusion group Mist Season, which released 3 albums.

 

With Jan-Olof Strandberg Kimmo formed Paidarion in 2009.

 

In 2009 Kimmo received a phone call from Marco Bernard as he asked if Kimmo could play drums for Marco's Samurai of Prog for a an Italian tribute album. It has been an intense co-operation ever since.

 

In the early 2020's it was time to form a project combining folk music and medieval music with progressive rock: ”The Guildmaster” with Rafael Pacha, Marco Bernard and Ton Scherpenzeel (Camel, Kayak).

 

Besides recording 3 solo albums: ”Maahinen: Ihmeellinen Iltapäivä” (1997), Wayfarer (2020) and Past And Present (2021), Kimmo has recorded 2 albums with the Spanish multi-instrumentalist Rafael Pacha.

 

Overall, Kimmo has played in over 70 releases; besides Finland also in Italian, Spanish and French albums. 18 of the albums include his compositions.

Watch now: 
Paidarion - Trapeze (live)

Contact

For bookings and other inquiries, contact:

Contact

For bookings and other inquiries, contact:

info(at)seacrestoy.com