In 2014, from a wild and desolate town in Finland, emerged Rantama. Then, a trio, they began making sweet instrumental jazz fusion. 6 years later, we are here to review their 2019 self-titled album as a fine example of Finnish prog rock. "What changed?" you might ask. While on the surface, they seem to have been joined by a singer, we see a complete shift in band personality and sound that can not be explained by the band losing their trio status. No, the sudden shift into a darker sound, chorus progressions similar to hard classic rock pieces, overdriven shreds, and a tight sense of groove can not be the side effects of no longer being an instrumental band. It seems that over the years, Rantama took inspiration from a wide range of musical giants - the likes of King Crimson, Opeth, Radiohead as well as Journey and Weather Report, in their own statement - and matured into progressive rock. Yet, I could still hear their 2016 heritage "Catching the Mystery Train" that gained them national recognition in their newest form. The chorus filled clean guitars that outpace the listener's energy with its frantic runs still paint the landscape in between verses. The drummer still manages to fit in his 64th note embellishments in the soothing grooves of "Splendid Sun." The new Rantama feels same, but different, more powerful than ever.