One of 2022 multitudes of new releases in Finnish hard rock music this year was newcomers RUST N’ RAGE‘s album, “One for the Road,” which was released in March. Not only did the band release a new album, but they were also able to play several shows. We decided to catch up with them for a recap of 2022! Here’s what they had to say…
What musical goals did you set for 2022? Did you achieve them?
We got off to 2022 full of excitement since we knew our newest album, “One for the Road,” would be released in March. Mainly we just had one goal: for the release to be successful and hope people will like it! And in our opinion, we managed to accomplish that goal beautifully.
We also aimed to play as many gigs as possible and we got to play some of our biggest gigs (yet) during this year. All-in-all, for us, this year has been awesome, as a band and as musicians.
Were you able to dedicate as much of 2022 to your project/band as you had hoped?
Pretty much. Last year we were recording the album, so we had much more work to do: composing, rehearsing, the time spent in the studio, etc. This year the music was done and we got to focus on touring and, of course, composing as much new material as possible.
What were some of the highlights you realized in 2022?
We’d say the reception we’ve gotten with our new material has been the biggest highlight for us. Many new awesome fans, many new awesome gigs, and many new awesome memories. We got to tour with BROTHER FIRETRIBE and ONE DESIRE in Finland, kind of as a part of our album release, and we had a blast!
In summer we even had a chance to fill in for STATUS QUO at Karjurock! How we got there was a funny combination of (un)fortunate events, great timing, and having a kick-ass dude mixing us.
Is there anything you learned during 2022?
[We learned] lots, as musicians and as a band. Basically, the work never stops You have got to keep on improving and making new material. We learned a lot about how long it takes for an album to come out and the whole process behind it, what makes a song catchy, and how to improve as a songwriter, about what makes a killer live show. Also, it always helps to have great people by your side!
Have you (re-)discovered any new music during 2022?
We all listen to all kinds of different stuff and love discovering new music! Of course, you try to get some new influences going and check out new stuff that comes out from your favorite bands and idols. We ourselves had lots of demos left over from the last album and immediately started working on those and also creating more new material.
What can we expect from you in 2023?
As perhaps expected, we are now getting the songs ready for a new album. Is it coming out in 2023? We shall see, but it’s going to be a banger, we’ll promise you that. Of course, lots of gigging and touring is on our horizon as well. Just got to find the right person we can work with regarding touring and gigs and we’re all set! All-in-all, more music, more live shows, and more rock ‘n’ roll! We wish a great Christmas and New Year to you and hope to see you in 2023! Soon playing in a town near you!
Article by Laureline Tilkin
