MATD return with Johanna Koskiniemi on the explosive and anthemic rock single “Angels of Rock”, a high-energy track built for stadiums. The song bursts with progressive synth transitions, screeching and chugging guitars, soaring melodic vocals, and a fierce blend of 80s hair rock, goth attitude, and modern European stadium rock. It has the feel of a major rock movie soundtrack and brings the spirit of a European rock revival into 2025.
“Angels of Rock” has been added to the ROCK A-List and will also air as a special ROCK POWERPLAY at 7 PM Eastern USA time every day for the next month, marking the return of big, glamorous, alternative rock energy.
When the “angels of rock” arrive, they bring light, power, attitude, and an unstoppable melodic force.
The Making of “Angels of Rock”
The song first took shape in December 2024, when Finnish duo MATD sent a demo titled Hell Has Lousy Songs to singer Johanna Koskiniemi. The demo immediately made an impact. Under the direction of producer Sammy Roiha at Sound Ateljee Studio, the track evolved into an explosive, full-throttle rock anthem.
The collaboration showcases MATD’s refined musicianship and Johanna’s powerful vocal delivery. Although it began as Johanna’s first venture into hard rock singing, the performance soon became bold, emotional, and commanding. Packed with massive guitars, pounding drums, and soaring melodic lines, “Angels of Rock” was designed for arenas rather than kitchen radios.
The track was submitted to Finland’s Eurovision Song Contest selection, standing as one of MATD’s most daring releases yet. It combines melodic intensity with a message of resilience: even in “hell” the notes go wrong, and the world needs light, unity, and joy more than ever.
Johanna says, “In dark times, you have to spread light and joy.”
About Johanna Koskiniemi
Johanna Koskiniemi is a former music teacher turned dynamic rock performer. She has studied piano, saxophone, trumpet, and voice, and has appeared in vocal competitions and theatrical productions across Finland and internationally. Her voice blends technical precision with emotional power, giving “Angels of Rock” both strength and heart.
About MATD
MATD, consisting of Marcos Kuusjärvi and Veli Eronen, originally performed as Max and the Ducks before rebranding in 2020. They are known for artistic collaborations across genres and borders, building bold musical projects that combine real-life inspiration, pop culture, and touches of fantasy.
Their breakout success included “Me and My Dog” featuring Tom Bedlam. During their Max and the Ducks era, they achieved nine songs on Finland’s official download charts. Their track “Who the F** Is Alice” was once Finland’s most downloaded song of the week, and “This Bond Is Tight” reached number two and was shortlisted for Switzerland’s Eurovision selection in 2015.
MATD do not chase trends. They build their own original direction, fusing personal stories and cinematic imagination into emotionally rich music.
“Angels of Rock” stands as a statement. Even in difficult times, rock music continues to rise with wings, fire, and purpose.
Track Credits
• Music: Marcos Kuusjärvi and Veli Eronen
• Lyrics: Marcos Kuusjärvi
• Lead vocals: Johanna Koskiniemi
• Background vocals: Sammy Roiha, Hakim Petri Hietikko
• Musicians: Sammy Roiha, Jaakko Roiha, Hakim Petri Hietikko, Esa Hiltunen
• Recorded at Sound Ateljee, Finland
Official Links
Facebook
MATD: https://www.facebook.com/matdband
Johanna: https://www.facebook.com/muusikkojohannakoskiniemi
Instagram
MATD: https://www.instagram.com/matdband/
Johanna: https://www.instagram.com/artist_johanna/
TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@matdband
Twitter / X
https://x.com/matd_band
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/track/2PqRqVste6N5etbgecr5Ut?si=2d616be16176489b
YouTube
Short: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CZsbP9BD78
Official: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdgUrz2nQho