Ever since Marjo Leinonen began singing as the lead vocalist of The Balls in the late 1980s, one thing has been unmistakably clear: she sounds like herself and no one else. Her voice is entirely distinctive and unique. This defining quality has remained constant throughout the decades and across all the ensembles in which Leinonen’s ruggedly soulful voice has taken centre stage.

Founded in 2018, BubliCans continues this uncompromisingly independent rhythm-and-roots music saga with a playful spirit, free from trends and imitation.

As in all great music, rhythm forms the foundation of BubliCans’ sound. The backbone of the band is built from the rhythm section. Drummer Sami Vettenranta is Marjo Leinonen’s musical counterpart and a thoroughly dependable partner in crime. Ville Niemelä provides the low-end power on sousaphone, whose sound gives the band both a distinctive character and a deep historical resonance. His brass-infused funk comes straight from the roots—from New Orleans, the cradle of authentic groove music. In this sound one can hear the uplifting spirit of funeral processions and the atmosphere of steamy back alleys.

Keyboard player Risto Kumpulainen, one of Finland’s leading roots musicians, is a master at combining skill and style. Guitarist Petri Kautto, who also contributes as a songwriter, is a quietly exceptional talent whose playing blends virtuosity with effortless storytelling.

While the first thing listeners notice in the rich roots music of Marjo Leinonen and BubliCans is the irresistible groove that gets the body moving and the lead singer’s almost elemental energy, there is also a deeper message beneath the celebration. BubliCans’ songs and performances speak of the transformative power of music—a force capable of renewal and rebirth. Their music advocates grace and peace. Trusting in this simple yet powerful truth, BubliCans strives to make the world a better place, one energetic, sweat-soaked and soulful song at a time.

Marjo Leinonen – vocals

Ville Niemelä – sousaphone

Sami Vettenranta – drums

Petri Kautto – guitar

Risto Kumpulainen – keyboards

Saturday, 26 September at 7:00 PM | Louhisali

Marjo Leinonen & The BubliCans

Doors open at 6:30 PM

S/K18, limited licensed serving area in the hall, seated club event

Tickets: €25 + service fee (from €1.50 + 0.65% of the order)

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Marjo Leinonen & the BubliCans

The event “Marjo Leinonen & the BubliCans” has ended