Peela consists of some of the finest upcoming jazz musicians in Helsinki, centering around the compositions of guitarist-composer Johannes Granroth. They draw influences from jazz, funk rock and neo soul to a mix where improvisation, powerful melodies, lush harmony and groovy rhythms play a central role. Peela's music is mostly instrumental, though at times enhanced by Maja Mannila’s virtuosic singing.
Peela was founded in 2016 and published their debut album Layers in May 2018. Their eagerly awaited second release "Stepping Stones" recently came out in the fall of 2020. Members now include Johannes Granroth (guitar, vocals, compositions), Severi Sorjonen (drums), Maja Mannila (keyboards, vocals), Sami Leponiemi (saxophone), Oliver Karttunen (bass) and Mikko Antila (percussion).
”Peela has great chemistry – as it only consists of strong personalities, that still don't overshadow each other. Together these talents are even more”, Pentti Ronkanen praises the group on the site Suomijazz.com
