Helsinki-based Mary Ann Hawkins cemented their place as Finland’s flagship surf rock act with their debut album released in 2022. The self-titled record received rave reviews both domestically and internationally. Even before that, the band had already become a talking point in the Finnish music scene thanks to their ecstatic live performances and two cult-status self-released EPs. Extensive touring across Finland and Europe further established their reputation.

The band’s second album, released in February, Helsinki Surf City, is a twelve-track gateway into the world of Mary Ann Hawkins. A world where foamy waves crash as high as Helsinki’s skyscrapers, and the city’s sounds invite listeners to dive into the whirlpool of rock ’n’ roll. Shimmering streets echo with the melancholy sound of guitars, like a siren’s call, drawing the listener into a surf rock cinematic universe. Reality and dream blend seamlessly, and soon the listener finds themselves surfing through the night-time city, illuminated by its glowing lights. It’s a beautiful, fast-paced, and slightly frightening journey, at the heart of which lies danceable surf rock.

The album delivers the dynamic Mary Ann Hawkins surf sound that fans and critics have come to expect. Mostly instrumental, the record continues where the debut left off, but the band refuses to simply meet expectations—they bring new flavors to the table. This time, a few tracks feature vocals, with collaborators who are true stars across Finland’s music scene. On the lead single Beatlesin Viisaat Sanat (“The Wise Words of the Beatles”), top Finnish rapper Stepa joins the band. Yöjuna (“Night Train”) evokes cinematic moods perfectly embodied by legendary artist Marko Haavisto. Rock ’n’ Roll Sydän (“Rock ’n’ Roll Heart”) is poised to become a rock classic, featuring the enigmatic artist Maria Stereo. The closing track, Ison Cityn Valot (“Lights of the Big City”), elevates Mary Ann Hawkins’ artistry to new heights with ethereal and intensely powerful vocals by Minja Koski, known as M.

In recent years, Mary Ann Hawkins has been celebrated for their versatile performances, appearing at front-row festival stages, skate event afterparties, conquered Central European venues, and domestic concert halls. The band’s distinctive sound fuses traditional surf rock and twang with cinematic textures, often enhanced by lead saxophone, creating atmospheres ranging from spaghetti westerns to high-energy rock mayhem. Their elegant visual presentation and short-film-style music videos have captivated fans and critics alike, earning the band acclaim as one of Finland’s best live acts and the new rulers of surf rock.