Returning to happiness: When a city hits the right notes
After years of living in England, Jesse returned to Finland in 2018, drawn by something he couldn’t quite put into words but felt deeply. Now based in Helsinki, Jessie has found a rhythm to his life that’s uniquely tied to the city’s natural beauty, and a tight-knit music community.
When Jesse Essel, a musician and an artist performing under the name Grande Mahogany, moved to Helsinki, one of his first jobs was putting up flyers for a music venue. Walking the streets, he quickly came to understand the character of the city.
“I got to know Helsinki on foot,” he remembers. “One of the first streets I explored was Iso Roobertinkatu in Punavuori, with its pebblestone paths and trams. It felt so European, so different from what I had experienced before. It was like stepping into a storybook.”
But Jesse’s connection to Helsinki goes deeper than its streets. Having spent his childhood in Turku before moving to Manchester at the age of 11, returning to Finland felt like reclaiming something he had missed.
“There’s a tranquillity here, a sense of security and easiness that I didn’t find in England,” Jesse explains. “You can just breathe here: everything is calmer, cleaner, and inspiring.”
Finding the rhythm of the city
Helsinki’s music scene became a central part of Jesse’s life. He immersed himself in the creative community, finding that its small size oozed collaboration rather than competition.
“The music scene here is tight-knit but open. Whether it’s rock, punk, electronic, or rap, everyone is trying to push the whole scene forward, not just focus on their own thing.”
For Jesse, that sense of community extends beyond music. He loves the connections that form in Helsinki’s compact social circles.
“The funny thing about Helsinki is how often you bump into people you know. You’ll be walking to the shop and run into a friend, then see them again at a party later – and discover you have a mutual friend in common. The city is one big web of connections.”
Work is just one ferry ride away
One of Jesse’s most inspiring places is a studio in Suomenlinna, a historic island fortress just a short ferry ride from the city centre. Jessie creates music at Suomenlinna Studio, a space that perfectly complements his artistic vision.
“Taking the ferry to the island is like a mini adventure. “It’s only 15 minutes, but when you arrive, it’s like stepping into a magical village.”
For Jesse, the sea plays an essential role in his inspiration.
“There’s something calming when you look over the water, and see the horizon stretch out endlessly. And in the summer, when the sunsets reflect off the sea, it’s a moment that makes you stop and appreciate how special this city is.”
Not massive, but in the best way
Beyond the studio, Jesse’s favourite way to experience Helsinki is by bike. One of his go-to spots is Kallahti near Vuosaari.
“There’s this long, narrow road lined with spruce trees that feels like a scene from an ‘80s American movie,” he says. “Riding through there, you feel like a kid again, just zooming along surrounded by nature.”
In addition to the city’s nature, Helsinki’s Art Nouveau buildings have left a lasting impression on Jessie, inspiring a new appreciation for architecture.
“Walking down the streets here, I can’t help but admire all the buildings in different colors. It’s so clean compared to the industrial brick landscapes of Manchester”, Jesse describes.
That blend of natural beauty, inspiring architecture, and accessibility is what Jesse believes sets the city apart.
“It’s not a massive city, which is the best part. You can walk or bike anywhere, from the Jugend-style streets of the city centre to the beach or forest in under 20 minutes”, he explains.For Jesse, Helsinki’s charm lies in its contrasts – all to be experienced but make sure it’s the right order.
“Come in the summer first, when the city is alive with light and music, and then you can visit in the winter to see the cold side of the coin. I’ll show you around!” Jesse finishes.
Explore Helsinki’s music scene, take a ferry ride to Suomenlinna, or bike through the nature trails of Kallahti. Discover why Helsinki inspires artists like Jesse and find your own rhythm.
