Customer Reviews

Art of the Finnish Kantele

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I've been a fan of kantele music for years. I have several earlier albums by the Pokelas, but this one was a little disappointing. I can't fault their technique, however the overall melodic content is rather pedestrian. Despite a few interesting pieces (Valkealan valssi, Hulda ja Jalmari, and Hintrek Peltoniemi's funeral), the mood setting flavor of some of their earlier work is missing.

Most people probably cannot even tell you where Finland is located, much less talk competently about the national instrument, the Kantele. It took quite a few weeks to finally get my cd, but the wait was well worth it. The music is pure and simple, and I have barely stopped listening to it since it arrived. The songs on this cd seem evenly balanced between old and new, polka and non-polka. Make no mistake...this is NOT a beer hall cd. It is calming, relaxing, soothing and a perfect background for some solo time or self reflection. I wish the Finns were more aggresive in promoting this wonderful music outside their own country. I guess that is what makes Finland so unique...they don't require or request validation from outsiders to do what they do, play what they play or live the way they live. I envy them their tranquility and way of life. If anyone in Finland wants to swap places for a few years let me know!