La Riippa Group – Awake (La Riippa Group, 2023)
La Riippa Group, an ensemble hailing from Finland, specializes in world music deeply rooted in the heart of Ostrobothnia, western Finland, while also drawing inspiration from more southerly influences. Their music resonates with the ambiance of a local pub’s creaking stage, the intricate rhythms of tango, and the melodic flow of Nordic-style jazz. The overall result is a deeply satisfying mix of traditional influences with folk-rock drums, exquisite vocals, elegant fiddle, skillful accordion and creative bass lines.
The highly talented songwriter Jessica Riippa eloquently expresses her emotions in both English and her native Swedish dialect from Nedervetil. Awake marks La Riippa’s second album, featuring a captivating collaboration with the acclaimed author Maria Turtschaninoff on the enchanting track “Natten går genom hagen” (Track 5).
The band’s journey began in 2014, and today it comprises five accomplished members. Jessica Riippa handles the vocals; Saana Pulkkinen skillfully plays the violin, Julia Hansson masterfully manages the accordion; Oskar Sandin lays down the bass lines; and Valter Söderbacka keeps the rhythm with the drums.
Author: Claudia Taylor
