Mirka "Leka" Rantanen stands as a towering figure in the Finnish hard rock and heavy metal scene, renowned for his work as a drummer and multi-platinum artist. With a career spanning over 35 years, he has contributed to more than 40 albums, collaborating with esteemed bands such as Thunderstone, King Company, Raskasta Joulua, Kotipelto, Warmen, Northern Kings, and Revolution Renaissance. However, his most ambitious and personal project, Circus of Rock, has now evolved from a star-studded studio venture into a fully formed, powerhouse band.
Originally launched as a solo endeavor, Circus of Rock debuted with Come One, Come All in 2021, followed by Lost Behind the Mask in 2023—both featuring an impressive lineup of guest vocalists, including Jeff Scott Soto, Johnny Gioeli, Marko Hietala, Danny Vaughn, Bernie Shaw, Rick Altzi, and more. After extensive consideration, Rantanen decided to transition the project into a full-time band, allowing for a more consistent musical identity and the ability to perform live more effectively.
Leading the charge on vocals is the legendary Mark Boals (Yngwie Malmsteen, Dokken, Ted Nugent), who previously appeared on Lost Behind the Mask and worked with Rantanen on Red Ravyn. The rest of the lineup features top-tier musicians: guitarists Samuli Federley (solo artist, Ilari Hämäläinen) and Vesa Virtanen (Ponies to Kill, Twilight Guardians), keyboardist Jari Pailamo (King Company, Kiuas), and bassist JJ Hjelt (Kenziner).
With a new chapter unfolding, Circus of Rock has signed with Lions Pride Music and is set to release their highly anticipated third album, Hellfire, in the summer of 2025. Rantanen promises the album will deliver the most rocking, balanced, and catchy collection of melodic hard rock songs yet. With a solidified lineup and electrifying live performances on the horizon, Circus of Rock is poised to take the global rock scene by storm.
1. The Great Evil,
2. Hellfire,
3. On The Lips Of Fate,
4. Broken Pieces,
5. Heat Of The Moment,
6. Die Another Day,
7. Lead Tears,
8. Back For Good,
9. Kill The Lights,
10. All Or Nothing,
11. Tough Pill To Swallow,
12. Just The Other Bricks (Bonus Track).