Terveet Kädet

Terveet Kädet

Terveet Kädet are a Finnish hardcore punk group from Tornio, active since 1980. They are among the first hardcore punk bands in Finland, alongside Lama and Kaaos. The name means “Healthy Hands”.

Style and influence

The group is identified with hardcore punk and punk, and their later work is also associated with thrash metal. They are often compared to Discharge in the Finnish context, while Anti-Cimex is used as a parallel for Sweden. Their influence extends beyond Finland, including on Brazilian metal and hardcore musicians.

History and line-up

The band forms in the early 1980s in Tornio and continues to perform. Its line-up changes several times over the years, and Veli-Matti “Läjä” Äijälä remains the only original member. He handles vocals and lyrics. The current line-up also includes Tiimo, Läjä Äijälä and Walde, with the band listing Maike Valanne on guitar and compositions, Puksu on bass, and Luttinen on drums in one current configuration. Äijälä is no longer working as a librarian, though he does so for a shorter period in the past.

Recognition

Terveet Kädet are described as a major Finnish hardcore band and as an important influence on later artists, including Max Cavalera of Sepultura and Soulfly, who names them among his favourite bands.