Pekko Käppi – Credo (Rockadillo / Nordic Notes, 2023)
Pekko Käppi, a musician from Tampere, Finland, is known for performing his partially electrified Finnish-Karelian lyre, the jouhikko. His music on Credo conjures images of ancient Finnish rock and blues celebrations, reminiscent of the legendary Tuska Festival in Helsinki. He’s joined by his musical companions, collectively known as K:H:H:L, who intriguingly go by “the bones of the dead, crazy horse,” matching his remarkable skill.
Pekko Käppi’s significance lies in reviving interest in the nearly forgotten jouhikko in Finland. Collaborating with Nuuti Vaapaavuori on bass, Tommi Laine on guitar, and Gilbert Kuppusami on drums, a quartet known for their maverick spirit, Pekko Käppi delves into Finland’s pagan past. This results in a seamless fusion of archaic sounds with the raw intensity of southern blues and gritty rock. Their latest creation, Credo, featuring guest vocalists Laura Moisio and Kielo Kärkkäinen, aptly encapsulates their style as “Scandinavian Voodo.”
Notably, Pekko Käppi’s jouhikko performances emit a gritty and visceral quality, drawing from ancient Finnish curses and the essence of Finnish swamps. A transformative encounter with the Grateful Dead during his exchange student days in the United States left an enduring mark on Pekko Käppi. Jerry Garcia’s incorporation of folk elements into his music deeply influenced this Finnish musician.
Despite not initially planning a new recording venture, Credo became the fifth album from Pekko Käppi & K:H:H:L due to the impending closure of The Sound of JJ music studio in Tampere. This prompted a swift action, resulting in a laborious eight-hour recording session and the creation of nine songs.
Credo beautifully weaves together various Finnish musical traditions and the creative influences of drummer Gilbert Kuppusami from Mauritius. Notably, the album includes “Melanz Kiltir,” the first Finnish folk-rock song sung in Mauritian Creole, and pays homage to the legendary Finnish folk singer Taavi Uutela (1883 to 1969). Pekko Käppi’s assertive declaration, “In your face, artificial intelligence!” adds a playful touch.
Buy Credo.
Author: Lisa Miller
