You're going by the name Kellarissa now so why the mutation?

"Kellarissa" is a Finnish word meaning "in the basement". I'm a sucker for a play on words, and because I'm Finnish and occasionally sing in the language, well, you get it... Plus it sounds really exotic.

So, we know that you are an accomplished musician with your work with P:ANO and the Choir Practice, but what made you decide to go solo?

I decided I had more to say by myself than I could in a band, and I believe you can be a lot more honest with yourself and with your music when you're not always involving someone else in the music-making process. Organizing practice is a breeze.

I heard the album and among other things, it has a soft quality to it and at the same time it is definitely too dark for a children's album. I wouldn't know where to put it - if I had a record store, I would have to start a new section just for you. How would you describe your sound?

Vocals upon vocals upon keyboards upon keyboards. I make the kind of music I want to hear. File under: It could all fall apart at any moment.

4. The lyrics are quite silly at points and combining that with harmonizing loops, and twirly, lush keys you get a big sound. On ‘Flamingo’, you seem to have fun experimenting with all that: layers, loops - how do you go about writing, arranging and performing your songs?

I try to find a pattern that I don't get tired of hearing repeat, often by experimenting initially with vocal loops. I then come up with a melody, and hear accompanying parts in my head that mesh with the whole mess. I really love singing in harmony, which I missed the most when I left my other bands. With the loops, I can layer my own vocals as much as I want.

5. At your cd release at Vivo September 13th with Hello Blue Roses (featuring Dan Bejar of Destroyer) and Les Beyond..... what are you going to wear? Don't worry, I ask all the guys this question too. Rubber boots or high heels?

A fabulous muumuu. I'd love to wear heels but the foot pedals require flats. Not enough ankle leverage in rubber boots.

6. Is anyone going to join you on stage during your set at the VIVO?

A few of the lovely ladies I've sung with in the past (and hopefully the future) will join me on stage for a few songs.

Well, congrats on your first CD Flamingo, out on Mint Records and see you at the show!

Thanks! See you then! Posted: Sep 8, 2008