Uusikuu – Piknik (Nordic Notes / CPL-Musicgroup, 2025)
Finnish band Uusikuu returns with Piknik, their sixth album, offering a joyful, nostalgic and charming mix of Finnish vintage music spanning the 1930s to the 1980s. Led by singer and composer Laura Ryhänen, the quintet departs from their usual focus on tango revival, instead incorporating elements of Gypsy swing, humppa, jenkka, and even disco beats.
Four of the album’s twelve tracks are original compositions, including Mata Hari’s Eyes, inspired by a moment in The Hague and depicting a dancer’s journey to independence.
Other highlights include Pitkien halausten nainen, a Finnish tango, and Pimeyden työt, a bossa nova about a remorseful bank robber. Eurovision influences are evident, particularly in Yes sir, alkaa polttaa, an homage to Baccara’s 1977 hit Yes Sir, I Can Boogie.
Guest vocalist Milana Misic, a key figure in Finnish vintage music, joins Uusikuu for Sä kaunehin oot and Sulle salaisuuden kertoa mä voisin, reviving the Harmony Sisters’ close-harmony style.
The album also features Kotiviini, a reinterpretation of Summer Wine, recalling the 1980s Finnish chart-topping version.
With Piknik, Uusikuu continues their tradition of weaving nostalgic sounds with fresh energy, delivering an engaging and danceable collection that celebrates Finnish musical heritage.
Musicians: Laura Ryhänen on vocals; Mikko Kuisma on violin and vocals; Norbert Bremes on accordion; James Geier on guitar; and Florian Dohrmann on double bass.
Buy Piknik.
Author: Tyler Bennet
