How to turn pain into power – review of “Via Miseria IV” by HOKKA

One of the most devastating news for a fan of Finnish music like myself that happened in 2025 was Joel Hokka parting ways with Blind Channel. It felt like the sky was falling suddenly and there was no meaning left in the world. But luckily life does find a way to bring hope back. No, wait, life does find a way to bring HOKKA back! Because the gentleman didn’t waste any time and started a project of his own.

And since they’re relasing their debut album “Via Miseria IV”, out on April 24th, 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records. If you’re thinking “Well, it will sound just like Blind Channel, right?“, I’m very happy to admit and to say that the album will prove you wrong. HOKKA has its own unique and personal musical identity, and it’s a completely different story.

So far the choices of singles have been excellent, but the album truly shines with “Via Miseria“. Joel’s words “Via Miseria / I never walk alone“, really express the universality of pain and sorrow. Same goes for “Murder Ballad“! Jimi Aslak on drums does a fantastic job in holding the rhythmic section, and Pauli Rantasalmi completes the lineup with his expertise and talent.

The production, mixing and mastering are wonderfully done, and if “Via Miseria IV” is a key indicator on the path that the band will walk on, I’m sure this is just the beginning of incredible achievements. It’s never wrong to bet on oneself, especially if music is the calling, like it is for HOKKA!

So on April 24th, my advice would be to stream and buy “Via Miseria IV” by HOKKA, because why should we ignore good music? A powerful, deeply human release — one that lingers long after the final note. It captures the truth that healing is not a destination but a practice, and that freedom is not always comforting.

Tracklist:

1. Blackbird
2. In the Darkness
3. Death by Cupid’s Arrow
4. Via Miseria
5. Heart Said No
6. Bon Apetit
7. Murder Ballad
8. Angels Fall
9. Serpen’t Song
10. Kiss from a Rose