Tabula Rasa

Check performance times on Tavastia's website. Finnish progressive rock classics band Tabula Rasa returns to the stage!

Founded in 1972 and having released two albums, Tabula Rasa is one of the pioneers of Finnish progressive rock. The band built its distinctive sound following in the footsteps of Cream, Jethro Tull, King Crimson, and Wigwam. They ended their career with the single "Rakastatko vielä kun ilta", which remains Tabula Rasa's most well-known song.

The idea of Tabula Rasa's return is not entirely new, but became reality at a memorial concert for guitarist Heikki Silvennoinen in May 2025. Silvennoinen was one of Tabula Rasa's founding members, as were bassist Tapio Suominen and drummer Asko Pakkanen, who are part of the current lineup. Joining them on stage are vocalist Jukka Salmela, who sang in Tabula Rasa's original version, his daughter singer Anna-Greta Salmela, keyboardist Jorma Kahilainen, flutist-organist Markus Pajakkala, and guitarist Kemmo Silvennoinen.

Kemmo, who grew up in the rock and heavy metal world, has found new ways to approach the guitar through his work with his father Heikki. "Tabula Rasa opened up an entirely new world for me, one I fell in love with. It's wonderful to have contributed my own vision to Tabula Rasa's songs, for instance in guitar solos. As a musician, I've gained a lot of courage and fresh perspectives. From Heikki's guitar playing, you pick up many valuable tips on how the sound should be and how a song needs a strong melody", says Kemmo Silvennoinen.

Drummer Asko Pakkanen explains that Tabula Rasa's return is not tied to any grand five-year plans, but rather something fun and heartfelt. "Right now, playing together is really enjoyable and it feels natural to go out and perform. We'll do this as long as it feels meaningful to us, and of course it's a bonus if people enjoy it and come to see us."

Accessibility
Tavastia's ground floor is accessible. There is a small threshold at the entrance, for which a ramp is available.