Finnish rock band Buko Shane released their new album, Pandemic Blues, via Long Lake Studio on August 1st, 2024. Compared to the previous band’s electrifying experimental rock and roll interpretation of Americana, Buko Shane presents a distinct approach with this album, focusing on stripped-down and minimalistic singer-songwriting. The minimalist album focuses on vocals, with acoustic guitars and one or two other instruments accompanying most of the songs. This change in style enables the band to touch on a personal level with their listeners, since they can only connect on a physical level and nothing more.

Pandemic Blues is one of the songs produced during or after the COVID-19 pandemic. The tracks describe the past four years’ feelings, attitudes, and events, aiming to help people understand their existence in this unprecedented era. Each track presents narratives, allowing the audience to connect with their challenges. Starting with “Another Sunday Morning”, which immediately sets the introspective mood continued for the entire list of tracks. Some of the album’s favorites, like “Long Winter”, “I Should Let You Go”, and “Just Another Band”, directly address themes of loneliness and loss. Conversely, “See That My Grave Is Kept Clean” conveys a sense of appreciation for life and overcoming hardships. “Son, My Sun” is a fitting conclusion to the album, providing the listener closure.

Undoubtedly, Buko Shane’s Pandemic Blues is evidence of how the band has adapted its music style to the current world. It is a true representation of real life through the COVID-19 pandemic which makes it recommendable to all listener whether a fan of the artists or not.

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