Seleniko

opis:
Review:
Before Värttinä utilised pop hooks in "Kokko", the group was all about finding new arrangements for Finno-Ugric folk music. Utilizing traditional instruments (notably the kantele, a traditional Finnish lap harp/zither), Värttinä draws inspiration in Finno-Ugric folk music, and stays fairly close to the sources.
The title track features some of the most jaw dropping harmonies I've ever heard in my life, and I still can't stop listening to it. The third track, "Kylä Vuotti Uutta Kuuta" became an international hit of sorts, and features a "wall of sound" approach to Finnish folk. Imagine Ronnie Spector behind the sound board on this track, complete with swelling organ and kantele plucking, and you get an idea.
All the songs on this album are just outstanding. Värttinä shifted stylistic gears after Seleniko, which is a shame since the pop elements to their sound, while nice, are nowhere nearly as satisfying as their older, more acoustic albums. And Seleniko, without doubt, is the best of those older albums.
I can't recommend this album enough to anyone with even half an interest in folk music. People unaccustomed to word music might be put off by the fact that all the songs are in Finnish, but with a sound this good, it shouldn't be an obstacle for any but the most determined Anglophones. Try it, and I guarantee that you'll love it.
[autor: Roger Williams, Providence, RI]