Finland's enigmatic Xysma were formed in the late '80s by a colorfully named cast of musicians including Joanitor Lottoner (lead vocals), Foreigner Lawny (vocals, guitars), Minister Stranius (guitars, keyboards), Gablo Heavenly (electric and upright ba**es), and Orvis Goodnight (drums). Over the course of a highly eccentric discography inaugurated by 1990's Fata Morgana EP and its immediate full-length follow-up, 1991's Yeah debut, the group has tread too many stylistic paths to allow for easy pigeonholing. But subsequent efforts like 1993's First and Magical, 1995's Deluxe, and particularly 1996's Lotto displayed a distinct, if still unorthodox alternative rock focus, with occasional detours into industrial music and noise rock as well. 1998's Singles odds and sods collection apparently served as a capper to their activities, but no official breakup was ever announced. ~ Ed Rivadavia, All Music Guide