MUSIC BY MARKUS RAIVIO

I'm Markus Raivio, a Helsinki-based composer, producer, and mental health advocate. My work revolves around crafting minimalist, neo-classical, and ambient soundscapes—music that invites introspection and emotional exploration. Over the years, I've drawn inspiration from composers like Jóhann Jóhannsson, Ólafur Arnalds, and Philip Glass, weaving their influence into my compositions to create a space where sound becomes a tool for understanding our inner landscapes.​

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With more than two decades of experience in mental health advocacy, I bring a unique perspective to my music. I believe in the power of sound to provoke thought, and offer moments of clarity. In my music, there’s no need for vocals or heavy instrumentation; instead, I focus on the beauty of simplicity—allowing each note to resonate deeply, free from distractions. This is a journey into emotions, a dialogue between mind and heart, and a reflection on the human condition.

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I aim that my music is not just about listening—it's about experiencing, reflecting, and ultimately, finding a sense of balance in the chaos of modern life.

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Earlier this year, I found myself diving deeply into minimalist and neo-classical music, a space I hadn't fully explored before. Influenced by Icelandic composers like Jóhann Jóhannsson and Ólafur Arnalds, as well as the classical genius of Víkingur Ólafsson, I became fascinated with the simplicity and emotional depth these artists bring to their work. It wasn’t long before I found myself combining these influences with my love for film composers like Max Richter and John Carpenter, blending melancholic tones with cinematic soundscapes.

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During the spring and summer, I spent countless hours listening, learning, and creating. As someone who’s spent years working in mental health, I’ve always believed in the importance of introspection and self-reflection, and I wanted to create music that wasn’t just relaxing but thought-provoking. Music that could serve as a companion during moments of contemplation—helping to clarify thoughts and emotions.

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With these ideas in mind, I began creating my latest album, a collection of tracks that explore the cycles of life—calm moments, tension, growth, and release. It’s music that offers both the listener and myself an opportunity to reflect on the ebbs and flows of life. The first single, “This Too Shall Pass,” is a direct reflection on these themes. It’s about accepting life’s inevitable changes, embracing the tough times, and knowing they will eventually give way to something new.

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As I embarked on this creative journey, I found myself creating music that feels more personal than ever before—stripped down, raw, and authentic. No drums, no vocals, just pure sound. I hope this music resonates with you, offering space to think, reflect, and grow.

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This album and its themes are deeply intertwined with my own life experiences, both as a composer and as someone who’s dedicated much of my life to mental health work. Music has always been a part of me, but this project has felt especially meaningful—allowing me to channel my thoughts, challenges, and hopes into something that I can share with the world.

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The first single from the album, “This Too Shall Pass,” will be released digitally on September 20th, and I’d love for you to join me on this journey. You can pre-save it now, and if you're interested, feel free to join my new Facebook group, where I'll share more about the music and the creative process behind each track. Thank you for your support—this journey wouldn’t be the same without you.

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Markus