Jukka Iisakkila - Clocks And Clouds (2018)

Best known as a classical conductor Jukka Iisakkila reveals his talents as a multi-instrumentalist and prog/fusion composer on his debut album of instrumental tunes. Clocks and Clouds is released on April 13th on Eclipse Music.

A regular at the helm of several major Nordic symphony orchestras Iisakkila's debut as a solo artist combines elements from the likes of Frank Zappa, Pekka Pohjola ja Steve Vai to hues of modern orchestrations and even moments of absurdism. Playing the bulk of the albums intruments himself Iisakkila demontrates virtuosity especially as an electric guitar player.

In his own words: "The bulk of the music on 'Clocks and Clouds' was written in various places within couple of years in hotel rooms, apartment in Italy, trains and airports, my home studio and other studio locations between and during concert tours. To dwell and live with thousands of notes every day is challenging and at the same time liberating, hence the name 'Clocks and Clouds'. Every time I sat down to make this record, I stripped myself of all outside expectations, all hang-ups and fears of what might happen."

Conductor Jukka Iisakkila's versatility and broad repertoire have taken him to symphony orchestras, chamber orchestras and contemporary ensembles throughout Europe. A regular guest with many of the leading Scandinavian orchestras and enjoys frequent collaboration with the Danish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nagoya Philharmonic and Tapiola Sinfonietta. He is artistic director of the Sääksmäki Soi-festival, worked as principal guest conductor of the Danish Radio Chamber Orchestra and was the chief conductor of the Pori Sinfonietta. Guest appearances have included engagements in Canada, Japan, England, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Hungary, Poland, Sweden, Denmark among others.

He has made several crossover productions with Iro Haarla, Rumpistol, Goldfrapp and Indians. He has also collaborated with his guitar hero Steve Vai and leads the tribute group The Breed playing the music of Finnish prog/jazz legend Pekka Pohjola.

In addition to his new release with Eclipse he has recorded for such esteemed labels as ECM, Dacapo, Decca, Pilfink and Apart Records.