Finnish Group H.I.M. Inks With Sire Records Worldwide

(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Finnish quintet H.I.M. has signed an exclusive worldwide recording contract with Sire Records. Fronted by charismatic and controversial vocalist and songwriter Ville Valo and comprised of guitarist Linde, bassist Mige, drummer Gas and keyboardist Burton, H.I.M. took the Scandinavian music scene by storm in 1996 with the release of their debut EP, "666 Ways to Love." A year later they consolidated their cult status with their first full album, "Greatest Love Songs, Vol. 666," featuring their hit version of the Chris Isaak original, "Wicked Game." Their next two releases, "Razorblade Romance" (2000) and "Deep Shadows and Brilliant Highlights" (2001) were bestsellers across Europe and prompted an extensive round of touring. H.I.M.’s latest album, 2003’s "Love Metal" is their most successful to date.

Commenting on the signing, Sire's founder Seymour Stein remarked, “Bringing H.I.M. to Sire Records is one of the most exciting events since the re-launch of the label. The fact that they picked Sire for international distribution is a tremendous coup for us and one that underscores the label’s reputation as a magnet for great music.”

“H.I.M. has forged its own unique culture and devout following and is a perfect match for Sire,” added label president Michael Goldstone. “We feel privileged to be collaborating with H.I.M. on their future musical endeavors and welcome them to the Sire family.”

H.I.M. is managed by Seppo Vesterinen.

H.I.M. itinerary:

11/12 Worchester, MA The Palladium

11/13 Philadelphia, PA Electric Factory

11/14-15 New York, NY Irving Plaza

11/18 Pittsburgh, PA The Rock Club

11/19 Detroit, MI The State Theatre

11/21 Minneapolis, MN Quest Club

11/24 Denver, CO The Fillmore

11/26 Las Vegas, NV House Of Blues

11/27 Tempe, AZ Marquee Theatre

12/2 Los Angeles, CA The Avalon

–Bob Grossweiner and Jane Cohen