Ahma

Maria Kalaniemi

Product Details

• Audio CD (January 23, 2001)
• Original Release Date: January 23, 2001
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Northside Records
• ASIN: B0000560K0
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #226,999 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

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

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Nordic magic, March 21, 2002

By	Rick Wellinghoff (Houston, Texas) - See all my reviews

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.

5.0 out of 5 stars Musical Genius, August 5, 2008

By	Habib (California, USA) - See all my reviews

The music on this album is very touching and leaves a big impression on those who listen to it. It's the kind of music that makes you recall memories and forces you to feel something as you reflect upon your life. At times it has brought me to tears, and this stands as one of the single best works in my collection.