Critically Acclaimed Finnish Guitarist Returns with New Music and a String of UK Dates

Award-winning blues-rock guitarist and vocalist Erja Lyytinen has just released her latest single, “The Ring”, ahead of her upcoming UK tour this April. The track is the second single from her much-anticipated new studio album, Smell the Roses, which is set to be released on March 28, 2025, via Tuohi Records. Fans can pre-order the album now and stream the new single on all major platforms.

Known for her fiery slide guitar work and powerful stage presence, Erja continues to push her sound forward with Smell the Roses, blending raw blues energy with a harder-edged rock sound. The album promises to deliver a collection of tracks filled with soulful storytelling, intricate guitar solos, and an unmistakable groove that will resonate with fans old and new.

With “The Ring”, Erja delivers a hard-hitting, energetic rock anthem that throws listeners straight into the action. The track is all about facing challenges head-on—when life puts you in the ring, sometimes the only option is to fight back. The song’s raw energy and driving rhythm set the tone for the rest of the album, making it clear that Smell the Roses will be one of her most electrifying releases yet.

The single is now available to stream here, and the official music video can be watched here.

It has been three years since Erja’s last solo album, Waiting for the Daylight, and in that time, she has toured relentlessly, performing at major festivals across the globe. From headlining HRH Blues in the UK to making her debut at the legendary Rory Gallagher Festival in Ireland, her reputation as one of the most exciting blues artists of her generation continues to grow.

In addition to touring, Erja recently appeared on The Masked Singer Finland, reaching the finals while keeping her role a secret—even from her twin sons. Performing covers of songs by Metallica, Kate Bush, and Jeff Buckley, her stint on the show showcased her versatility as a musician. She later released her haunting rendition of “Hallelujah” as a single.

Erja also marked a career milestone with the release of her live album, 20 Years of Blues Rock!—a celebration of two decades since her debut album Wildflower. In late 2024, she was recognized as an Angel of Rock at the HRH Awards, joining the ranks of legendary female rockers such as Doro Pesch and Jackie Chambers (Girlschool).

With Smell the Roses, Erja takes a different approach from her previous work, stripping back the production to put guitar riffs and solos at the forefront. Inspired by classic ’70s rock albums, the record was mixed with analogue gear and vintage techniques to achieve a warm, authentic sound.

Lyrically, the album dives deep into themes of sorrow, loss, betrayal, and redemption, with song titles like “Going to Hell” and “Abyss” hinting at its darker tones. However, Erja assures fans that the album is not all gloom—it’s also groovy, energetic, and made for live performances.

Fans can expect Smell the Roses to be a powerful mix of blues and rock, showcasing Erja’s signature slide guitar playing and her ability to craft deeply personal yet universally relatable songs.

To support the new album, Erja Lyytinen is embarking on her biggest UK tour since before the pandemic, bringing her electrifying live show to fans across the country. With a reputation for delivering passionate and high-energy performances, these gigs are not to be missed.

For Liverpool blues and rock fans, the O2 Academy 2 show on Friday, April 4th is set to be a standout moment of the tour. With a mix of new material, fan favourites, and jaw-dropping guitar solos, it promises to be a night to remember. Tickets for the Liverpool show are available via Ticketmaster.

Erja will be joined by special guests Thieves of Liberty and Syteria at selected dates.

Full Tour Dates:

📍 Oxford, O2 Academy 2 – Wed 2 April 2025 [Tickets: Ticketmaster]
📍 Dudley, The Lamp Tavern – Thu 3 April 2025 [Tickets: Kate Shill Press]
📍 Liverpool, O2 Academy 2 – Fri 4 April 2025 [Tickets: Ticketmaster]
📍 Newcastle, The Think Tank – Sat 5 April 2025 [Tickets: Eventim]
📍 Edinburgh, The Mash House – Sun 6 April 2025 [Tickets: TicketSource]
📍 Glasgow, Nice ’N Sleazy – Mon 7 April 2025 [Tickets: TicketSource]
📍 Sheffield, The Greystones – Tue 8 April 2025 [Tickets: We Got Tickets]
📍 Leeds, Brudenell Social Club – Wed 9 April 2025 [Tickets: SeeTickets]
📍 Blackpool, Waterloo – Thu 10 April 2025 [Tickets: SeeTickets]
📍 London, O2 Academy 2, Islington – Fri 11 April 2025 [Tickets: Ticketmaster]
📍 Sittingbourne, The Apple Yard – Sat 12 April 2025 [Tickets: Gigantic]
📍 HRH Blues Festival, Leicester, O2 Academy – Sun 13 April 2025 [Tickets: HRH Blues]

Tickets for all dates are available now via https://erjalyytinen.com/tour.