Customer Reviews

Wimme

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I'm not sure I understand the perspective of the writer who gave Wimme one star - they must have heard some spectacular joiking in the past.

I've heard my share of it, and I find Wimme to be a singularly (although not solely) interesting variation on the form. His - and RinneRadio's - ability to mix techno-ambient sounds and melodies with traditional joiking astounds me. Like other artists in the Nordic countries who are remaking ancient music in a modern image, Wimme is impressive on CD and in person.

As I wrote in my review of Wimme's latest (as of 1999) release, "Gierran," I've both met Wimme and seen him live. His performance was a reinforcement that his music - and cultural mission - are authentic, enlightening, and necessary in today's often impersonal and vapid consumer culture.

And no, I don't even like granola and, yes, I've voted Republican. Sometimes. I consider Wimme a valid cultural icon for a Saami culture that may not have much time left.

From a purchase point of view, I'd say Wimme is best for a sense of the traditional joik. Gierran is best for a more modern treatment. Both are good, however.

Wimme Saari is a yoik singer from Finland (Samiland). Yoik singing is similar in sound and intonation to some of the Native American chants and singing, evoking a plaintive intense quality. His voice is finely honed, and he sings against a backdrop of modern Finnish music as well as ambient sounds, or percussive effects. The music is interesting in its own right, as well as being a good showcase for Wimme to sing against. Recommended for those who wish to seek out new worthwhile dimensions in world music.

Wimme mixes the ancient with the modern, & does it very differently from anyone else I've ever heard do it. The cd starts with water & a long, misty, high note. From there the traditional joik chanting is great, the electronic ambiance is pensive with clear definition, some rhythms in the course of the cd are interesting & slow. They feel good. The cd as a whole is an incredible debut. Wimme has a real trademark sound.

This is one of the most relaxing, meditative, and unique CD's that a person can buy. The ocean and animal sounds mixed in with his superb singing bring it all together, so that one may feel that they are relaxing on an icy beach in Scandanavia. Though I don't like all of the songs on the album, the "good" 2/3 are his best work.
[...]

The club tent in Dranouter was dancing on wolves and watering sounds

Wimme is just not that interesting. When he fronts various bands, he just obstructs them. I have heard others with better voices sing joiks.