Distinctive Nordic Folk Inspired by Nature and Mythology

Hurja Halla – Riitti (Hurja Halla, 2022)

The debut album “Riitti” presents the fascinating sounds of Finnish act Hurja Halla. The duo performs newly composed contemporary folk music. Even though the group only includes two musicians, they generate a wide range of sounds. You’ll find lively cello-fueled pieces accompanied by light percussion; charming experimental, yet accessible vocal interactions; spellbinding willow flute; skillful harmonica and cello duets; dazzling flute and cello interactions; galloping jaw harp; sound effects; and dreamy ambient-like pieces like “Outro.”

Hurja Halla’s inspiration comes from nature and mythology of the North. Indeed, “Riitti” is dedicated to all forests.

Cellist and vocalist Liisa Haapanen is one of the few Finnish cellists currently performing folk music. In addition to her participation in Hurja Halla, Haapanen also performs as a soloist and in Maria Milvus’ ensemble.

Multi-instrumentalist Janne Ojajärvi specializes in traditional wind instruments like overtone flutes, jaw harps and harmonicas. Ojajärvi also performs as a soloist, as well as in the band Ojajärvi Blom Ojajärvi and Trio Beoir. On the album, he plays harmonicas, jaw harps, overtone flutes, vocals, percussion, didgeridoo.

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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.