Ahma

Amazon.com
Finnish accordionist Maria Kalaniemi has explored many musical facets in her career, ranging from classical to folk to experimental to jazz, and has proved to be one of the leading modern exponents of her instrument. This follow-up to 1997's Iho shows how far she's come. Backed by her long-time band, Aldargaz, she moves with a supple grace between the traditional folk of "Bingjo" and the slinky Latin feel of "Huuma (Los Mareados)." There's a decidedly jazzy feel to the playing, which can take off on lightning-fast improvisations. Full credit should be given to the other musicians, whose wit and technique is extraordinary. But center stage belongs to Kalaniemi, and like the late Argentinian Astor Piazzolla, she has complete mastery of the accordion, easily collapsing the barriers between musical genres. Ahma is a lesson in modern music. --Chris Nickson

Tracks:

Ahma
Angskar
Huuma (Los Mareados)
Kaamos (Polar Night)
Melos
Lovina
Nibe
Bingjo
Kamppi
Namas
Nautilus
Arctic Paradise

Amazon.com

Finnish accordionist Maria Kalaniemi has explored many musical facets in her career, ranging from classical to folk to experimental to jazz, and has proved to be one of the leading modern exponents of her instrument. This follow-up to 1997's Iho shows how far she's come. Backed by her long-time band, Aldargaz, she moves with a supple grace between the traditional folk of "Bingjo" and the slinky Latin feel of "Huuma (Los Mareados)." There's a decidedly jazzy feel to the playing, which can take off on lightning-fast improvisations. Full credit should be given to the other musicians, whose wit and technique is extraordinary. But center stage belongs to Kalaniemi, and like the late Argentinian Astor Piazzolla, she has complete mastery of the accordion, easily collapsing the barriers between musical genres. Ahma is a lesson in modern music. --Chris Nickson

Customer Reviews:

Nordic magic.......2002-03-22

Maria Kalaniemi is one of many artists being put in the category of "Nordic roots" whom I have recently discovered. Her latest effort entitled Ahma is personally a stunner. The compositions and arrangements with her group Aldargaz are an intriguing mix of traditional, jazz and modern (not "new age") that transports me to another place - peaceful, yet invigorated and alive. Use of horns and voice are subtle, yet powerful. And it's all anchored with the much maligned and misunderstood accordian, one of the coolest instruments around. I've always loved the accordian, especially in the context of roots, country and rock (along with conjunto, celtic, zydeco, klezmer and polka, of course), but Maria puts it into a whole new realm for me that is really beautiful. Favorite cut is "Kaamos (Polar Night)" - just gorgeous! I can't wait to get her other CDs and continue my journey in the music of Scandinavia, where some of the most interesting and moving music in the world is currently being played.