BIOGRAPHY
A Journey Through Three Eras
Leverage is a Finnish heavy rock band with a storied history of reinvention and resilience. Since their formation in the early 2000s, Leverage has combined powerful riffs, soaring melodies, and symphonic flourishes into a genre-defying sound that has captivated fans worldwide. Over three distinct eras, the band has pushed creative boundaries and forged a unique identity, evolving while staying true to their melodic heavy rock roots.
MK1 (2005–2012):
The Beginning of the Journey
Leverage originated from a collaboration between long-time friends Tuomas Heikkinen (guitar) and Torsti Spoof (guitar) in the early 2000s. Tuomas had a handful of song ideas, while Torsti was building a career as a studio engineer and producer. When their original choice for a vocalist, Kimmo Blom, was unavailable, they recruited Pekka Heino, whose powerful voice and enthusiasm for the project made him a perfect fit. Trusted musicians joined to complete the lineup: Pekka Lampinen (bass, later replaced by Sami Norrbacka), Marko Niskala (keyboards), and Valtteri Revonkorpi (drums).
Leverage debuted in 2006 with Tides, which caused a stir in melodic heavy rock circles both in Finland and internationally. Their 2008 follow-up, Blind Fire, elevated their status further, earning critical acclaim and building a loyal fanbase. In 2009, Spinefarm Records released their third album, Circus Colossus, introducing symphonic grandeur and cinematic depth to their sound.
Despite their growing momentum, Leverage faced challenges, including health issues that led to lineup changes and a lack of international touring opportunities. When their contract with Spinefarm ended during a staff overhaul, the band went on hiatus. Torsti shifted focus to producing cinematic trailer music, effectively marking the end of MK1.
MK2 (2018–2022): Reinvention and Resurgence
After years of silence, Leverage returned in 2018 with a refreshed lineup. Tuomas teamed up with virtuoso guitarist Mikko Salovaara (formerly of Kiuas) and longtime collaborator Kimmo Blom on vocals. The reformed band released the single Red Moon Over Sonora under the Leverage name, signaling the birth of MK2.
The album Determinus (2019) followed, featuring the standout single Wind of Morrigan, with violinist LottaMaria Heiskanen lending her talents. The band played festivals and gigs, including the Frontiers Festival in Italy, but the COVID-19 pandemic stalled their momentum.
During this period, Kimmo bravely fought illness, yet continued to perform with the band and contribute to their 2021 album, Above the Beyond. Tragically, Kimmo’s condition worsened, and he passed away in August 2022, leaving a profound impact on the band and their fans. His contributions to Leverage were immeasurable, and his legacy remains an integral part of the band’s story.
MK3 (2023–Present):
A New Dawn
Leverage began a new chapter in late 2022 when Paolo Ribaldini, an accomplished vocalist and lifelong Leverage fan, was invited to sing at Kimmo Blom’s memorial event. His powerful voice and dynamic presence left a lasting impression, leading to his formal addition to the band. At the same time, Mikko Salovaara stepped down due to scheduling conflicts, and violinist Lotta-Maria Heiskanen joined as a permanent member, bringing a unique melodic texture to the group’s sound.
With renewed energy and a clear vision, Leverage MK3 embarked on a creative renaissance. In 2023, they played a series of test concerts, garnering overwhelmingly positive feedback from fans. Fueled by this momentum, Tuomas crafted songs that embraced the band’s heavy rock roots while exploring metal and progressive twists. Paolo’s vocal range and collaborative spirit elevated the material to new heights.
Their upcoming album, due in 2025, promises to be the band’s most ambitious work yet, blending heavy riffs, intricate storytelling, and themes of human fragility, freedom, and symbolic journeys. The album’s creation reflects a shared passion and determination to honor their past while boldly stepping into the future.