MELO

Finnish rapper MELO can be called many things: an eclectic trailblazer of Finnish rap, the leading force of a new wave, or a genre entirely of his own. And in truth, he really is exactly as significant a musical voice as all those over-the-top superlatives suggest. One thing you should know from the outset: every bit of praise MELO receives is firmly grounded in reality.

MELO’s music doesn’t lean on rules, norms or formulas – it exists entirely on its own terms. His songs feel deeply personal yet instantly relatable, sounding at once familiar and completely unknown. Tying it all together is a dizzyingly sharp production style that makes even the darkest moments unexpectedly danceable. MELO’s wide-ranging catalogue contains multiple worlds, but one thread always remains the same: MELO always sounds like MELO.

On stage, MELO is mysterious yet powerfully present. His shows create the feeling of a shared secret society between artist and audience, one that anyone is welcome to join. And this July, that includes you, dear Ilosaarirock visitor!