Shiraz Lane

Shiraz Lane is a hard rock band from Vantaa, Finland, active since 2009 and known for a glam metal-influenced sound that also draws on heavy metal and rock. The group’s line-up is Joel Alex on bass, Miki Kalske on rhythm guitar, Hannes Kett on lead vocals, Jani Laine on lead guitar, and Ana Vilkkumaa on drums. In the bio, the drummer is also referred to as Ana Willman.

Style and line-up

The band builds its sound around dual guitars, with Jani Laine and Miki Kalske credited with the guitar work, a rhythm section led by Joel Alex and drums, and Hannes Kett’s high-pitched lead vocals. Their music is described as combining hard rock energy with melodic singing and a direct live approach.

Early years and recognition

Although the band begins in 2011 in the bio, it is active from 2009 onward. It gains momentum after the line-up settles in 2015. The group wins the Hard Rock Rising competition in Helsinki in 2014, which leads to a performance at the Hard Rock Cafe in Toronto. In 2015, it also wins Wacken Metal Battle.

Recordings and releases

Shiraz Lane releases its debut single, “Out There Somewhere” backed with “Money Talks,” in 2014. Both songs later appear on the group’s first EP, Be The Slave Or Be The Change, which comes out in 2015 and includes the track “Mental Slavery.” The band follows this with several EPs and accompanying music videos.

Its first full-length album, For Crying Out Loud, appears in 2016 and includes the single “House of Cards.” A second album, Carnival Days, follows in 2018.

Touring and live appearances

The band tours major summer festivals in Finland and performs in Toronto, Tokyo, and at Wacken Open Air in Germany. In autumn 2015, it tours Finland with Santa Cruz, playing major club venues across the country.

Label and reputation

After building attention in the underground scene, Shiraz Lane signs a worldwide deal with Frontiers Music Srl in 2015. The bio also notes that members of The 69 Eyes, Amorphis, Children of Bodom, Lordi, and Sonic Syndicate speak highly of the band’s live performances.