CD Review: Estonia's Maarja Nuut's 'Une Meeles' (In The Hold Of A Dream)

Maarja Nuut
Une Meeles
Self-Release

Estonia's fiddler and singer, Maarja Nuut, releases her latest musical venture full of minimalist delicacies, mysterious electronic soundscapes, and light melodies with an experimental vibe. The vocals are akin to Vaartina in parts. However, the musical structures are similar to other artists from Scandinavia. The atmospheric sounds and somewhat industrial or metallic sounds on a few tracks showcases Maarja's creativity. For instance, the sound of a cell tower is the focus of "Kiik Tahab Kindaid." Maarja's classical Indian music studies shine through on some of the fiddle compositions, such as "Siidisulis Linnukene." Interestingly, some of the plucked string compositions reflect a North African sound not normally observed in Estonian music. Fans of Scandinavian folk and experimental music should find it very satisfying. Also, the vocal arrangements are not too far from Icelandic or Greenlandic influences. This is a very engaging and solid release. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Monoswezi's 'Monoswezi Yanga'

Monoswezi
Monoswezi Yanga
Riverboat Records

Monoswezi is a group born out of several nations, including Mozambique, Norway, Sweden, and Zimbabwe. The instrumental backing is primarily due to the mbira--thumb piano. However, the mbira is accompanied by bass, marimba, sax, clarinet, percussion, guitar, harmonium, harmonica, and drums. Hope Masike and Calu Tsemane provide vocal accompaniment to many of the tunes. The sparkling and earth-laden mbira provides a dreamy and contemplative resonance that is very magical and seductive. The album borders on jazz, folk, roots, Afro, traditional, neo-classical, and experimental music genres. Scandinavia is normally a country positioned very far away from Zimbabwe. Thankfully, Monoswezi bridges the gap between the two world regions in one, cohesive offering titled: Monoswezi Yanga. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: FatDog's 'New Found Land'

FatDog
New Found Land
Riverboat Records/World Music Network

FatDog is an engaging folk music troupe with members from Sweden, England, and Norway. The group is rich in roots and jazz styles, too. The European group incorporates diverse instruments, including cittern, concertina, guitar, clarinet, flute, trumpet, sax, bass, and hurdy-gurdy. All the members chime in from time to time on vocals. There are Scandinavian dance elements and other Western European musical styles that propel the music into a very intriguing and addictive whirlwind of aural color. The percussion is produced from various instruments, but there are no drums on the recording. The brass keep the music moving along into some jazzy realms, while the strings and vocals keep it well-rooted in Scandinavian ancestry. At any rate, the twelve tunes are mostly traditional, but arranged by FatDog. Fans of European jigs, reels, sailor songs, folk music, and roots music will find New Found Land a necessary listening experience. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Moira Smiley & VOCO's 'Laughter Out Of Tears'

Moira Smiley & VOCO
Laughter Out Of Tears
Whim Records

The sensational vocal songs of Moira Smiley & VOCO are steeped in Appalachian, Scandinavian, and European styles that echo similarities with Dala Girls, Varttina, Heidi Talbot, Helene Blum, Fay Hield, Karine Polwart, and similar gals. The album features fifteen songs of audio delight that are mostly original songs, but some are covered from Swedish, Appalachian, Serbian, and Croatian ancestries. A few feature vocals as the lead instrument. The group has an uncanny ability to magically gel together with such a compelling and intriguing vocal repertoire that is never pretentious or egotistical. You will even hear a little Zero 7 and Dala Girls influences on "Blow Blow Thou Winter Wind." The forty-five-minute album is hearty enough; even for the most discriminating vocal connoisseur. Anyone with an interest in female vocal folk music will relish Laughter Out Of Tears. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Kyle Carey's 'North Star'

Kyle Carey
North Star
Americelta Records

The sparkling folk and roots music of Kyle Carey spans continents and time-spans that are unimaginably magical. The incorporation of American, Celtic, Gaelic, Scottish, Irish, and Appalachian leanings are evident throughout. Kyle's vocals are akin to European songstresses, Heidi Talbot and Karine Polwart. There are fiddle, mandolin, piano, cello, banjo, bass, guitar, and percussion elements that add to the folksy roots. Some songs connote a bright, sunny day, while others touch on love, loss, immigration, seasons, dreams, and even gospel connotations. The dozen songs represent morsels of delight that are enriched by the musical traditions of North America, Scandinavia, and the U.K. Fans of folk, roots, European music, and country will be amazed by the stuff on this album. I give North Star five big ones! Try it today. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Helge Lien Trio's 'Badgers And Other Beings'

Helge Lien Trio
Badgers And Other Beings
Ozella Music

The Helge Lien Trio hails from Norway and brings us a perfect blend of soothing jazz music that is created by drums, piano, and bass. The rather simplistic instrumental repertoire showcases a wide diversity with punchy drums, flowing and sweeping piano rhythms, and poignant bass-lines that make hearts smile. Helge Lien is the piano maestro, while Frode Berg is the bassist and Per Oddvar Johansen is the drummer. Running a few minutes under an hour, the album transcends time and space with beautiful melodies and rhythms that contain a level of classicism and pizzazz that are unforgettable. This is an ideal album for lounging or relaxing. It is very reflective and soothing. Notably, the entire album is void of vocals, so you can let the instrumental medley sweep you away and believe me; it will. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Solfrid Molland's 'Musikken er mit fedreland'

Solfrid Molland
Musikken er mit fedreland
KKV

Norway's Solfrid Molland is a talented vocalist, accordionist, and pianist with an ear for European, Scandinavian, and gypsy rhythms and melodies. Solfrid's new album attempts to highlight the Roma music genre of gypsy with regards to Norway's influence. Solfrid is joined by Gheorgie Vasile, Valentin Vasile, Ion Cantaragiu Rasturnel, Gjermund Silset, Lars Tormod Jenset, and a choir. The heart-felt violin pulls at the heart-strings, but it is very fitting. The gypsy rhythms are rich and moving. The instruments come together in a whirling fashion to create a mesmerizing, instrumental interplay between vocals and heritage. The neo-classical, world fusion, balkan jazz, and gypsy melodies makes the album shine with memorable sounds. Anyone interested in gypsy music and Norwegian music will love Solfrid's Musikken er mit fedreland. ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Andreas Aase's 'Tre'

Andreas Aase
Tre
Ora Fonogram

Norway's enlightening musical spirit, Andreas Aase, is a talented, eight-string, guitar bouzouki player. Tre, which means, "three," "wood," or "tree," is an album of a dozen, instrumental songs on solo bouzouki. There are no vocals throughout the album. Nine of the tracks are traditional, Norwegian tunes, while three other tunes are directly attributed to Andreas. The solo music is serene and acoustic without any other additional instruments. The solemn sounds are spritely at times. However, the music is largely folk-based and contemporary instrumental. The music is steeped in the traditions of Norway's craggy fjords and Scandinavia's historical presence throughout European music concoctions. The peaceful music is perfect for relaxing, cafes, bookstores, family gatherings, and other quiet, intimate, and personal occasions. Andreas hits high notes here with a glorious and highly-recommended release. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Ruut's 'Glimpse'

Ruut
Glimpse
Self-Release

Born in Finland and based in Baltimore, Ruut brings infectious folk music grooves to the forefront with vocals akin to Dala Girls, Tori Amos, and the Beu Sisters. The folk repertoire is steeped in swirling guitar melodies, bass, keys, piano, accordion, and percussion. Each track is catchy and worth repeated listens. "Hourglass" is a more introspective tune, because it is rather slow and sparse on instrumentation. However, Ruut's voice is still a gem throughout. Additionally, "Church Bells," "Heartbreak," and "No One Will Ever Love You" are slower tunes. In contrast, "Glimpse," "Make It Good," and "Last One" are more up-tempo and pop-focused. Overall, Ruut's tender vocals are meaningful and pop-centric. Fans of folk music with a pop edge will love Ruut. For a 'glimpse' into a musical world that is filled with redeeming values, Ruut will satisfy all those seeking really, really good music. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Firil's 'Smile Som Sumarsole'

Firil
Smile Som Sumarsole
Etnisk Musikklubb

Firil is led by Norwegian vocalist, Margit Myhr, but is joined by fellow countryman, Olav Luksengard Mjelva on Hardanger fiddle and Swedish musicians, Anders Hall on viola and octave fiddle with Adam Johansson on guitar. There is a mix of instrumental and vocal tunes throughout. The thirteen track release contains some soul-stirring and toe-twirling melodies that are upbeat, authentic, and raw. The sweet vocals of Margit Myhr are unforgettable and resemble the likes of Emma Hardelin and Jenny Wilhelm. The mostly traditional release brings together unique folk traditions from the Hallingdal region of Norway. Anyone familiar with traditional Scandinavian folk music will love it, yet it is accessible enough to entertain listeners in other world regions. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Lise Lunde Brennhagen's 'Kjeringe i snodrevet'

Lise Lunde Brennhagen

Kjeringe i snodrevet
Etnisk Musikklubb

Norway’s Lise Lunde Brennhagen plays the langeleik, which is a traditional zither instrument with a long resonating box, one melodic string, and up to seven drone strings. The instrument is strummed with a plectrum. The sound produced is akin to a psaltery, dulcimer, and kantele. The melodies are entirely instrumental and feature only the langeleik. The twenty songs are rather short, but that does not diminish the fine result. Anyone with an interest in Scandinavian instrumental music, harp music, kora music, and most of all, langeleik fans, will get the most out of this recording. It is time to experience the wonderful music of an ancient and seldom-heard instrument. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Annbjorg Lien's 'Khoom Loy'

Annbjorg Lien
Khoom Loy
Compass Records

As a Norwegian fiddler and traditional musician, Annbjorg Lien has enthralled listeners throughout the world for years. Khoom Loy, which is Thai for 'Paper Lanterns,' is a fun romp throughout the Scandinavian and Celtic fiddling worlds with lively nyckelharpa, guitar, zither, banjo, pedal steel, B3, mellotron, bass, assorted percussion, and various brass. The songs are mostly instrumental, but Annbjorg's vocals on "Khoom Loy,'' suggest a strong folk influence. The jazzy, jam outro on "Natten" and "Needles Eye" are most akin to many of the Dave Matthews Band jam sessions with lively percussion, strings, and horns. The buzuq, bouzouki, tabla, sarod, and related instruments provide a Middle Eastern and South Asian element on "Den Storste Daarlighed" and "Til." There are spirited moments, contemplative melodies, and jazzy sounds that truly encapsulate the essence of world music today. Nothing is cheesy here. This is one of the best albums from Annbjorg's repertoire. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Arto Jarvela & Kaivama's Self-Titled Release

Arto Jarvela & Kaivama
Arto Jarvela & Kaivama
Oart Musick

The Finnish-American folk duo, Kaivama, which is comprised of Sara Pajunen on fiddle and vocals and Jonathan Rundman on acoustic guitar, harmonium, mandolin, piano and vocals, is joined by Finnish-native, Arto Jarvela. Arto is a skilled fiddler, singofiddler, and esseharpaist. There are thirteen tracks that are mostly instrumental, but the vocals are as spritely as the fiery fiddling. The drone of the harmonium and uppity ambiance of the fiddle brings together two unifying sounds of splendid brilliance and folkish flare. Fans of folk music, Finnish music, and Scandinavian roots music will love the sweeping melodies and upbeat rhythms throughout the album. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Kardemimmit's 'Autio Huvila'

Kardemimmit
Autio Huvila
Frigg

The kantele, a plucked zither indigenous to Finland, is the primary instrument in Kardemimmit's repertoire, but they also include harmonicas, double bass, guitar, and bouzouki. The group is comprised of four young ladies from Finland. They are excellent vocalists and professional kantele players in Finland and beyond. The music is traditional folk music that is vocally similar to another Finnish folk group, Varttina. However, Kardemimmit does not utilize as many instruments as Varttina. The sweet vocals are a perfect match for the scintillating kantele strings. The harp-like tonal qualities are very relaxing and engaging. The liner notes include Finnish lyrics only, but song summaries are in English. This is a great album for folk music fans with an interest in Scandinavia. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Various Artists' 'Norge, Mitt Norge...?'

Various Artists
Norge, Mitt Norge...?
KKV

The national identity of Norway is preserved, yet reinvented, with historical songs made anew for today's generation. However, the songs are still folk centered and light pop with equal doses of classical and jazz. The title is translated as 'Norway, My Norway.' The music is arranged by Valkyrien Allstars, but Moddi, Aissa Tobi, Trond Granlund, Viggo Sandvik, Osla Fagottkor, Sudan Dudan, and Solveig Slettahjell have their hand in the mix, too. The thirteen track release is largely a folk music compilation that was recorded in an old Parliamentary room in Oslo, where the concept of Norway as an independent state was decided between 1814 and 1854. The music contains fiddles, drums, bright vocals, bass, and horns. The melody of "Deilig er Norden," resembles "Beautiful Savior"--a popular Christian hymn. Anyone with an interest in folk music from Scandinavia will love this one. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Tritulen's Self-Titled Release From Scandinavia

Tritulen
Tritulen
Etnisk Musikklubb

 The Norwegian trio of Ebba Jacobsson, Jonas Akerlund, and Anette Thorsheim bring us contemporary folk music from Norway and Sweden on their latest self-titled release. The music is composed and performed on guitar, accordion, and fiddle. The group performs love songs, spiritual pieces, and dance tunes. The mix of vocals and instrumentals makes the songs really come alive with Scandinavian charm and amazement. The fourteen tracks are rich with folk traditions and sweet melodies that are crystal clear and pure. The floating vocals and pensive instrumentation makes Tritulen shimmer with icy-smooth executions. The lack of electric embellishments does not necessarily make the music lackluster. In fact, the cozy nature of the intimate melodies and notes are perfect enough for packing large stadiums or a house filled with family members sitting around a roaring fireplace in the dead of winter. Fans of Scandinavian folk music will find Tritulen a perfect companion in times of musical yearning. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Maria Misgeld's 'Romans i moll'

Maria Misgeld
Romans i moll
Misgeld Music

Romans i moll (Romance in B minor) is the latest release by Sweden's Maria Misgeld. The angelic voice is beautiful and entrancing no matter what key it is in. This album contains limited instrumentation, but that does not detract from the musical qualities of the compositions. Maria's vocals are accompanied by Olle Lindvall on nylon acoustic guitar; Olof Misgeld on fiddle and viola; and Arne Forsen on harmonium. The traditional songs reflect a truly, Scandinavian presence without the addition of drums, rock tunes, or dance music. The mostly Swedish tunes are also on the same album with Finnish and Norwegian tunes. Inspired by historical places throughout Sweden, Maria sings sweet melodies and tunes with the exuberance of fellow countrywomen, Emma Hardelin and Jenny Wilhelms. Steeped in folk traditions, Romans i moll sets the new standard for Swedish folk music today. You will love it! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Randi Tytingvag's 'Let Go'

Randi Tytingvag
Let Go
Ozella Music

Norway's Randi Tytingvag is joined by Anders Aarum on piano and glockenspiel; Espen Leite on accordion; Jens Fossum on double bass; Ola Kvernberg on violin; and Morten Michelsen on clarinet. The classy, English vocals are performed in a jazzy, pop standard fashion with some folk instrument accompaniment that gives it a North American feel. The sweet melodies, soft piano, and gritty violin make Let Go seem like a sunny recording of utter happiness for any cloudy or rainy day. The sweet vocals by Randi are somewhat reminiscent of the U.K.'s Katie Melua. In any case, the eleven tracks showcase Randi's pleasant voice and simple instrumental repertoire that build upon a folk base with some jazz and improvisational music thrown in the mix. Fans of Norwegian and Scandinavian folk and vocal music will love it. Listeners young and old will love the sincere lyrics and jaunty musical arrangements. An addtional recording by Tytingvag purchased separately contains the exact same songs, but they are instrumentals on Let Go: Instrumentals (Ozella Music, 2011). ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: V/A - 'Arctic Paradise: Contemporary Music From Finland 2010'

Various Artists
Arctic Paradise: Contemporary Music From Finland 2010
FIMIC

The contemporary music of Finland is poignantly captured by researcher, Pirkko Kotirinta. The stylish liner notes weigh in at nearly 80 pages of text. The information contains in-depth analysis of various music genres from Finland, including vocal genres, pelimanni music, accordion/harmonium, kantele, jouhikko, sami, and fusion styles. The music of Tsuumi Sound System, Svang, Sanna Kurki-Suonio, Trepaanit, Lepisto-Lehti, KTU, Frigg, Vilma Timonen Quartet, Alamaailman Vasarat, Ulla, and others are included on the compilation. However, the sounds of Finland's finest performers--Wimme and JPP--are nowhere to be seen. Some of the artists not featured on the tracklist are discussed in the text. The compilation runs the gamut of traditional styles in a contemporary context. However, this is not your pop or rock album. Nevertheless, some rock elements make their way into KTU's "Quiver." Overall, the Finnish Music Information Centre produced a fine example of Finland's music heritage on CD. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Jelena Jakubovitch's 'Burn Burn Gypsy Love'

Jelena Jakubovitch
Burn Burn Gypsy Love
Ajabu

Russian-born and Stockholm resident, Jelena Jakubovitch, sets the stage with an amazing set of Russian poetry sung in an emotive and seductive style in the vein of Latin and Gypsy rhythms. Jelena's lyrics in Russian speak volumes--even if you may not be able to understand the words. Notably, the song lyrics are printed in the liner notes in English. Nevertheless, Jelena incorporated Gypsy rhythms from beyond Western Europe--with sounds coming from Middle Eastern, Spanish, Mediterranean, and Scandinavian roots. The classical and jazzy compositions contain splendid rhythms and melodies. Jelena's voice is as strong as the Czech Republic's Vera Bila or Cape Verde's late-Cesaria Evora. At any rate, Burn Burn Gypsy Love is burning with fiery passion and rustic vocals that awaken the heart of the human spirit. ~ Matthew Forss