Finnish Duo MATD and Johanna Koskiniemi Unleash Anthemic “Angels of Rock” on the ROCK A-List

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 10:30 AM Pacific 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

Best New Rock: Joseph H Dean’s Love What Is Happening To Me Rocks the Hollywood FM A-List

Joseph H Dean returns with another anthemic rock hit that showcases his unmistakable style and passion. Love What Is Happening To Me is a sing-along warm rock gem that highlights Dean’s charismatic storytelling, powerful voice, and exquisite guitar playing. The track builds with chunky riffs, classic solos, and a vocal delivery full of attitude and emotion. It carries the listener through a meandering journey that erupts into a soaring guitar screech before settling into a driving rhythm. The song’s texture brings together shades of Tom Petty, Black Sabbath, and Creedence Clearwater Revival, mixed with an edge of early Adam and the Ants. While it begins as a heartfelt chugging rock song, by the end it evolves into a sing-along arena rock anthem that compels listeners to move.

The new single has now been added to the A-List Rock Playlist, where it will spin night and day, and it has also been chosen as a special ROCK POWERPLAY at 9:30 AM Pacific USA time to air daily for the next month.

Dean’s rise on Spotify has been remarkable. In just nine weeks he has earned 28,621 monthly listeners, with Love What Is Happening To Me now on 2,275 playlists. His success also includes six simultaneous placements on Spotify’s Release Radar. His mantra, “The love can’t control ya,” rings out as both a lyric and a statement of intent.

Behind this momentum lies a deeply personal inspiration. After losing his wife to cancer, Dean found unexpected solace in the music of Lady Gaga, crediting her songs for helping him through his darkest moments. He explains that hearing her voice gives him peace, even if only briefly, and that this emotional connection has fueled his own music. It is this authenticity that resonates with listeners, making his rock sound both raw and uplifting.

Joseph H Dean continues to prove that real human music can still captivate audiences around the world. His message is spreading fast and the anticipation for what comes next is stronger than ever.

Joseph H Dean Official Website:
Joseph H Dean
Listen to Love What Is Happening To Me: Spotify Link