Finnish rising force Hokka announce their highly anticipated debut album “Via Miseria IV”, due out on April 24th, 2026, via Nuclear Blast Records. The band brings together three major names from Finland’s rock legacy: former Blind Channel frontman Joel Hokka, The Rasmus founding member and former guitarist-songwriter Pauli Rantasalmi, and phenomenal young drummer Jimi Aslak.
Following the success of the previously released singles “In the Darkness” and “Death by Cupid’s Arrow”, the band now unveil the powerful third single from the upcoming record, “Heart Said No”, arriving together with another epic, cinematic video in unmistakable Hokka style.
A beautiful, emotional anthem built around a captivating piano melody, “Heart Said No” showcases a more vulnerable yet powerful side of Hokka, blending soaring atmospheres with the band’s signature intensity. The track offers another glimpse into the sonic depth and thematic weight that define “Via Miseria IV”, an album that explores themes of struggle, resilience, and inner conflict.
Frontman Joel Hokka comments on the song:
“Big boys don’t cry — except when writing songs like this. ‘Heart Said No’ was the first song I ever wrote with tears in my eyes — and I wasn’t the only one in the band. The song is a raw and authentic deep dive into self-reflection, shaped by minds steeped in melancholy. We’re incredibly proud to announce that our first album, ‘Via Miseria IV’, will be released on April 24th”.
Check out the video for “Heart Said No” below.
“Via Miseria IV” comes in following formats:
• CD jewel case with 20-page poster booklet
• 1 LP red vinyl
• 1 LP red/black splatter
Pre-order & pre-save “Via Miseria IV” here.
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 (Dying Flame)
8. Angels Fall
9. Serpent’s Song
10. Kiss From a Rose
In addition, Hokka has just announced their first live shows for 2026 giving fans the opportunity to experience the power and storytelling of the warrior and sensai saga on stage for the first time.
Helsinki club show 2026:
07.05.26 FI Helsinki – Tavastia
Festival shows 2026:
12.-13.06.26 – FI Lahti – Kesämössö
27.06.26 – FI Helsinki – Tuska
03.-05.07.26 – FI Turku – Ruisrock
04.07.26 – FI Tampere – Tuhdimmat Tahdit
17.-19.07.26 – FI Joensuu – Ilosaarirock
23.-25.07.26 – FI Kuopio – Kuopiorock
25.07.26 – FI Oulu – QStock
14.-16.08.26 – CH Cudrefin – Rock The Lakes
Line up:
Joel Hokka – Vocals
Pauli Rantasalmi – Guitar
Jimi Aslak – Drums
Weblinks:
www.instagram.com/joelhokka
www.instagram.com/paulirantasalmi
www.instagram.com/jimiaslak
