Jaakko Eino Kalevi – Jaakko Eino Kalevi

Kalevi’s new self-titled album is a comprehensive introduction to an artist surely destined to become one of synth-pop’s quirky new posterboys – and not just because on its opening track, also named after himself, he repeats his own name like a Pokémon with a fondness for arpeggiators.

There’s plenty more evidence of his humorous side, including lyrics as frank as 'no one cares about you or your things' and as cutting as 'sparks sparkle', as well as synth voices ripped straight from a high school Yamaha's preset bank; the 'flute' on Deeper Shadows is particularly special.

Also clear is his knack for simple, effective scoring (Mind Like Muscle’s bass part takes some beating) and his versatility, proving as capable of pulling off Steely Dan-tinged jazz breaks (Night At The Field) as he is a straight faced Serge Gainsbourg homage (Don’t Ask Me Why). Sure there are fillers and Kalevi gleefully embraces style over substance, but Jaakko evinces a peculiar, alluring personality. [Andrew Gordon]