When this EP came out in 1981, it exposed the world to the amazing playing of progressive rock/fusion band Kaseke. The first release was clearly more in the fusion vein, and the playing brought Estonian musicians to a new level.

Most of the work on this short EP was penned by then-leader keyboardist Tõnu Naissoo. The material was clearly fusion, with tones of prog audible throughout the four songs. The EP begins with the short "Introduktsioon" (Introduction), then goes to the title track "Sõnum" (News). The very catchy, late '70s-like fusion piece features Peeter Malkov's flute prominently alongside Naissoo's keyboards. The drumming of Andrus Vaht during the guitar solo is memorable, not forgetting the guitar solo trade-offs from Riho Sibul and Ain Varts. The ending is especially complex and catchy. Cool tune.

Side B starts out with guitarist Riho Sibul's "Kala jälg vees" (Trace of a Fish in the Water). It basically features the soulful guitar melody by the author. A slow and low-key piece, it shows off the other side of Sibul's playing--the soulful and emotional part, aside from the breakneck fantastic stuff he's usually known for by fans. The EP finishes with "Lauäeval Koos Isaga" (Saturday Together with Dad), written by guitarist Ain Varts. It's a catchy fusion piece with a memorable lead line, with fantastic drumming of Andrus Vaht throughout the piece. The guitar solos feature both guitarists in fine form, especially the author Varts.

Though it was a short release, this EP put Kaseke on the top of the leader board among fusion/prog bands in Estonia. The playing was marvelous, as well as the songs itself. It set the stage for the full length release, Põletus (Burning), 2 years later, which is still among the best album in Estonian history.

Mel Huang
Tallinn, Estonia
3 May 1999

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