Initially, the music consisted of Lauri's experiments with different sounds (such as the buzzing of a wasp in a matchbox), combined with rhythms created using tracker programs from the 90s.
Soon, Lauri's brother Olli Ainala and their friend Johannes Pitkänen joined the experiments, introducing "real" instruments like guitars and children’s toy synthesizers into the music.
In addition to the deep impact of his hometown, more concrete cultural influences include Talvisalo cemetery in Savonlinna, A Love Cycle album by Sami Sänpäkkilä, 90s' lo-fi black metal, NES game soundtracks and old children’s television shows.
On their second album Laulu laakson kukista pianist and vocalist Emmi Uimonen also joined the ranks and there were also guest appearances by artists such as Leena Uotila, Ville Leinonen, Anna Karjalainen, Toivo Rolser, and Kristin Evensen Giæver.
Anniina Saksa who used to sing in the live line-up now takes the main responsibility for the vocals and Teemu Eerola's violins tie the album's songs together, creating a recognizable Paavoharju sound with fresh nuances.
The distinct sound of Paavoharju is constructed with microphones purchased from the flea market, old PC computers, and free software such as ModPlug Tracker and Cool Edit.