Published: April 25, 2026
The project led by Joel Hokka (ex-Blind Channel) and The Rasmus guitarist Pauli Rantasalmi presents its first full-length release
HOKKA have released their debut album “Via Miseria IV”, now available via Nuclear Blast Records.
Alongside the album’s arrival, the band has unveiled the official video for the title track “Via Miseria”, continuing the rollout of material from the record.
The release follows earlier previews, as previously reported by Rockum in HOKKA Share “Blackbird” Video Ahead of Debut Album Via Miseria IV Featuring Members of Blind Channel and The Rasmus, establishing the album’s direction prior to its release.
HOKKA brings together Joel Hokka, former frontman of Blind Channel, and Pauli Rantasalmi, guitarist and songwriter of The Rasmus.
The lineup is completed by drummer Jimi Aslak, contributing a dynamic and modern edge to the band’s sound.
The project represents a new creative chapter, combining the members’ established backgrounds into a unified direction.
“Via Miseria IV” explores themes centered on:
vengeance
love
grief
resilience
The album is constructed around a conceptual and emotional framework, with each track contributing to a broader narrative.
At its thematic core is the line:
“I found a beauty in the pain.”
This phrase reflects the album’s focus on transformation through adversity.
Musically, the record combines:
atmospheric textures
melodic structures
heavy guitar elements
“Via Miseria” serves as the album’s title track and a central representation of its sound and themes.
The accompanying video presents a cinematic visual approach aligned with the album’s narrative of darkness, introspection, and emotional contrast.
FORMATS
CD jewel case (20-page poster booklet)
1LP red vinyl
1LP red/black splatter vinyl
LIVE — 2026 DATES
May 7 — Helsinki, FI — Tavastia
June 12–13 — Lahti, FI — Kesämössö
June 27 — Helsinki, FI — Tuska
July 3–5 — Turku, FI — Ruisrock
July 4 — Tampere, FI — Tuhdimmat Tahdit
July 17–19 — Joensuu, FI — Ilosaarirock
July 23–25 — Kuopio, FI — Kuopiorock
July 25 — Oulu, FI — QStock
August 14–16 — Cudrefin, CH — Rock The Lakes
LINEUP
Joel Hokka — Vocals
Pauli Rantasalmi — Guitar
Sampo Sundström — Guitar
Jimi Aslak — Drums
With “Via Miseria,” HOKKA complete the presentation cycle of “Via Miseria IV”, defining the identity of their debut release.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
Photo credit: Hokka Syndicate OY
Watch “Via Miseria” below:
