While Tuska was new territory, Finland itself wasn’t. The band had already experienced the country’s welcoming crowds at Nummirock a year earlier, leaving Zelli eager to return. Ending such a long tour at one of Europe’s most respected festivals felt like the perfect way to celebrate. Much of the conversation centred around Paleface Swiss‘ musical development. Their recent EP has sparked discussions among fans about a changing sound, but Zelli doesn’t see it as a conscious reinvention. From inside the band, every step has felt completely natural.

“Apparently people told me we’re shifting. For me it’s completely natural because in my head it makes sense. You don’t even know what’s coming on the next one.”

Rather than planning stylistic changes, the band simply follows wherever life and emotion lead. Recent personal experiences have influenced the material currently taking shape, but even Zelli admits he has no idea what the next album will eventually become. More importantly, he no longer feels the need to force the music into a predefined box. The discussion naturally shifted towards authenticity and the challenge of growing without becoming trapped by success. As Paleface Swiss continue to climb, streaming numbers and ticket sales inevitably become more important—after all, the band now supports families through their music. Yet Zelli makes a clear distinction between running a successful business and creating honest art.

“We try to only care about what’s going on in my head and other people’s heads. That’s what we care about. So far, it always worked.”

While he openly acknowledges that metrics matter in today’s music industry, he believes audiences immediately recognize when artists begin creating primarily for numbers instead of genuine expression.

The conversation also revealed a more personal side of life inside Paleface Swiss. Constant touring and the band’s growing organisation make it increasingly difficult to slow down and appreciate achievements. Zelli laughs at his tendency to always think several days ahead, even during unforgettable moments, but explains that having a larger crew has finally given him space to focus on his own well-being and actually experience the journey instead of constantly managing it.

That same growth also affects relationships within the band. As expectations increase and schedules become more demanding, maintaining genuine friendships requires conscious effort. Rather than assuming those bonds will simply survive, the members intentionally create moments away from work—sharing dinners or weekends together where business is left behind. Perhaps the most revealing moment was when Zelli explains the promise they made to each other years ago.

“Even if it’s not going to work out on business, we’d rather quit the business before we have to quit the friendship.”

It’s a simple statement, but one that neatly captures why Paleface Swiss continue to feel so grounded despite their rapidly expanding success.

Looking beyond Tuska, the conversation briefly turned towards Belgium, where the band would soon make its Alcatraz Festival debut. Having only heard glowing recommendations from friends, Zelli admitted he didn’t know exactly what to expect, but looked forward to discovering another new festival and another passionate crowd.

As the interview wrapped up, he offered perhaps the clearest summary of what Paleface Swiss represents today.

“If you really want to know us, you have to come and see us live.”

For all the discussions about evolving sounds, growing audiences and future plans, it is still the live connection with fans that remains at the heart of everything the band does. And with one final reminder to support festivals whenever possible, Zelli headed off to catch one of his own favourite bands before preparing to close out Paleface Swiss‘ tour on the Tuska stage.

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