Onni (Kardemimmit KARCD-001, 2015)
Onni is the new independent release by Finnish quartet Kardemimmit. The title of the album translates as happiness.
Kardemimmit is a vocal and kantele ensemble that includes Maija Pokela, Jutta Rahmel, Anna Wegelius and Leeni Wegelius. They have been performing together for about 15 years and their music is inspired by folk traditions. Most of the pieces are original compositions by ensemble members featuring traditional lyrics.
Onni includes exquisite vocal interplay and harmonies, supported by the mesmerizing sound of the kantele, a Finnish plucked dulcimer. Kardemimmit play various types of kanteles ranging from vintage versions to new models.
Song highlights include “Kun Mun Kultani Tulisi” (I Wish My Darling Came to Me), the gorgeous trancelike “Toinen Tahti” (The Other Star), “Tulikipuna” (Origin of Fire), the dreamtime “Oi Ihminen” (Chasing After the wind).
Album lineup: Maija Pokela on vocals, 38-stringed kantele, and 15-stringed kantele; Jutta Rahmel on vocals, 38-stringed kantele, and 15-stringed kantele; Anna Wegelius on vocals, 15-stringed kantele, and 38-stringed kantele; and Leeni Wegelius on vocals, 15-stringed kantele, 38-stringed kantele, and vintage kantele.
The ensembles earlier albums are: Viira (2006), Kaisla (2009) and Autio huvila (2012). Autio huvila received the Folk Music Album of the year 2012 in Finland.
Onni is a delightful album of vocals and kantele music by one of the finest Nordic music ensembles.
The CD is available from cdbaby.com
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
