CD Review: Sattuma's 'Kinofilmi'

Sattuma

Kinofilmi

Sketis Music

The modern folk music from Karelia is nicely performed by Sattuma. A group comprised of violin, bass, drums, bagpipes, clarinet, yoik chants, sax, flutes, accordion, mandolin, kantele, and bouzouki is sure to mesmerize all who listen. Songs are mostly written by the band. Liner notes include English, Finnish, and Russian commentary. The mostly male vocals and female backing vocals are very refreshing and engaging. The folk melodies are akin to any modern band coming out of Scandinavia, the Balkans, or Western Russia. The songs are surprisingly cheery and easy to sing along to. It is one of the best recordings to come across my desk over the past ten years. Kinofilmi is the soundtrack for the film called life. Own it today! ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Yarga Sound System - 'Live'

Yarga Sound System

Live

Sketis Music

Hailing from Northwestern Russia, in the Republic of Karelia, resides a band so engrossed with Russia's mystical and folk music, that Live is literally a soundtrack of Northern life. The electronic noises and sounds perfectly accompany a diverse repertoire of mbira, throat-singing, violin, kalimba, winds, loops, and dubs. It is not a particularly modern sound, but it does use some modern electronic wizardry to accent the folk elements. It is the ideal recording for listeners of aboriginal music, Scandinavian folk, and Russian folk with a slightly modern twist. Mostly instrumental, Live features something for everyone without any deleterious side effects. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Olemba's 'Oli Dielo' From Republic of Karelia

Olemba

Oli Dielo

Sketis Music

Hailing from the Republic of Karelia, which borders Finland to the West, is Olemba; a group that produces modern folk/rock rooted in folklore and tradition. "Oli Dielo" is Finnish traditional song sung in Finnish by three female singers indicative of Finland's Varttina. The modern folk/rock repertoire include the balalaika, bass, drums, accordion, and flute. The relatively unknown region of Karelia, from a musical perspective, makes Oli Dielo a special and vital recording of historical significance. This is great folk music for the Scandinavian lover. ~ Matthew Forss