The Brief

Finnish air guitarist Aapo "The Angus" Rautio claimed victory at the Air Guitar World Championships Friday night in Oulu, Finland, earning his homeland its first title in 25 years.

Rautio triumphed in the final round of the 28th annual competition, which featured performers from 13 countries. Contestants are judged on passion, stage presence and "Airness" — a concept blending technical skill and artistic flair.

Competitors perform two 60-second routines, one to a song of their choice and another to a track selected by organizers. Real instruments and backup bands are banned, but costumes and props are allowed.

Judges score performances between 4.0 and 6.0 points, weighing originality, technical merit and the ability to lose oneself in the music.

This year’s final saw Rautio

See Full Page