Design19 is a group from Vaasa, founded in 1999 to further develop the Darkpop style direction they created. Striking chord progressions are used as elements of the style, which are sometimes broken by momentary outbursts of rage. Although the music is harsh and dark, it is still hopeful and catchy pop in places. On top of the heavy guitar riffs float gentle vocals and growls, which create a very unique atmosphere for design19 music.

Thomas and Eeka met each other in high school in 1996. Through mutual friends, they found a common hobby, music. Over time, they noticed that the musical visions of both met to a large extent. This led to the formation of their first band together. After a couple of other guys joined the band, the composition of their own songs and enthusiastic gigging began.

After the previous one left the band, a new bassist was needed to replace him… Thomas found Mika in the bathroom of the bar, whom he recognized as the same cool bassist he had seen earlier with his band from that time at a gig. Häkki joined the band and brought his own influences to the music. The band went into the studio and the trio realized that the chemistry worked well together. The band was looking for its style and the music changed in a tougher direction. The then drummer withdrew from the band and was replaced by Niko, a drummer playing in the same training camp, who, despite his young age, had already convinced the hosts with his playing. Design19 was born. The year was 1999.

After Thomas got out of India 2000, design19 went to the studio to make a demo tape. Around this time, a new member, Sami Sillanpää, joined the band. He had already played second guitar at a gig before and had convinced the band with his style and skills. The recording found its way into the hands of producer Sökö Kaukoranta and he got excited about the music and wanted to make a video for the band. Design19 went to the studio again, this time with a new fire in his eyes. The band recorded two songs, “AIE” and “Beetlewings”, the latter of which would also be released as a video. The video shooting moved almost a year forward due to Eeka’s surprising television carousel, which seemed to go on and on. The video was finally filmed in the summer of 2001 in the spirit of the talk show. Design19 got its final composition in the fall of 2001, when Martti Linholm joined the band as a keyboard player, making the band six members. The band is open about their style and named it Darkpop.

Personal Biographies:
Eerikki M. – vocals
Niko L. – drums
Thomas B. – guitar
Sami S. – guitar
Mika H. – bass
Martti L. keyboards & backing vocals