ALTARIA is a new Finnish melodic metal group, featuring members of Sonata Arctica and Stormwing. They have a demo out entitled 'Sleeping Visitons 2001', available from their website.
Who are you and what do you do in Altaria?
My name is Marko Pukkila and I am the bassplayer in Altaria.
Where's the band from?
We come from Finland.
Who're your major influences?
We are influenced by the 70īs and 80īs hardrock. Bands like Dio, Maiden, older Queensryche, Rainbow, Malmsteen, Judas Priest etc.
What's your local scene like?
Itīs very good at the moment. We have many great metal bands coming from Finland at the moment. Bands like Stratovarius, Sonata Arctica, Nightwish, HIM, Children Of Bodom... just to name a couple.
How can people hear your music?
Well... from our webpage
www.altariamusic.com and from
www.mp3.com
If you could play a gig with 3 other bands, who would it be?
They would probably be Dio, Maiden and Judas Priest
What's your best gig memory?
Must be from Nokia 2001... it was our first gig...
What's your worst?
Sorry... all gigs have been really great!
Would you describe your sound as Hot or Cold?
Hot on wheels... =)
What are you plans for the future?
Well... we are currently looking for a record deal so I hope we get one soon and we can start the recording of our debut album.
What song of yours should people listen to before any other?
Tough question... all?
If a label said they'd sign you for a 10 album, multi-million Ģ deal, providing you got rid of one of your members (you can choose!), would you do it?
No I donīt think so... we have a great line-up now...
What's your favourite album of all time, and why?
Must be Queensryche - Operation Mindcrime. They have great melodies and catchy songs... I really love this band!
What was the main reason you became a musician?
Well... my father was a musician when he was young so it must run in the family...
How would you like to be remembered?
As a great songwriter.
What's the first word that comes to mind when you see the word MANOWAR!
WARRIORS!
What one location in the world would you love to play a gig at?
Somewhere in Japan...
What do you think of the current metal magazines? Which rock, and which are shit?
Well, I havenīt had that much time to read magazines lately but as far as I remember they rae all ok.
Tell us 3 good reasons why people should listen to you?
Great songs, catchy melodies, basic rock
Any message for your fans and the UM masses?
Well... check out our webpage at
www.altariamusic.com and we hope to see you soon on tour!
