Alum Review–KÄKILINTU by Veera Kuisma

Musical Reflections: Ancient Traditions and the Continuity of Human Experience

Veera Kuisma’s latest EP Käkilintu is a unique musical treat you and I will cherish and admire. The rarity of these three songs ensues from the unique artistry governing their creation. These songs are a masterful celebration of the Finnish tradition and distinctive experimentation of blending traditional and modern elements into the creative process.

Each track is rooted in the rich folk heritage of Finland and draws from centuries-old melodies, lyrical styles, and cultural themes. The artist ensures that the songs are vibrant and relevant by weaving these elements from the ancient tradition into the contemporary creative process.

We see Veera’s composition exploring a range of emotions and ideas from calming lullabies to promising incantations. This album is the reimagining of the tradition and a fervent effort to preserve the essence of Finnish folk music.

At the core of the composition, we find the artist’s deep connection to the elements of Finnish tradition including the polska rhythms, spell-like chants, and melodies that have been passed down through many generations. Her compositions reflect the cyclical patterns inherent in nature and life, evident in the gentle repetition we see in in “Käkilintu” and the symbolic banishment of winter we come across in “Rautamaa.”

The Artist

Veera Kuisma is a prominent name in the contemporary Nordic folk music landscape. Her acclaimed compositions blend the rhythmic energy of Finnish traditions with the mesmerizing tunes that her creative talent accomplishes. Veera is a graduate of the famed Sibelius Academy in Helsinki and Berklee College of Music in Boston. In her artistry, we find some deep influences of Nordic, Celtic, Balkan, and old-time music traditions. In fact, her musical journey seamlessly weaves the notable elements of these traditions into her own compositions. Motivated by the Näppärit folk movement, the legendary fiddle band Frigg, and the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival, the artist journeyed from classical piano to the pulsating world of folk music.

Veera commands a huge following in the music world, thanks to some stunning characteristics of her compositions including grace, energy, and precision. Her charming sonic creations resonate with the robust expectations of her audience, while always retaining their allegiance to the elements of the Finnish folk tradition. Both as a solo artist and as a collaborator with bands like ALDA, Polenta, and Polskatroikka, the music Veera produces is a treasure house of emotions, stories, and profound moments of escape.

Exploring The Tracks

KÄKILINTU (Cuckoo Bird)

In the first song Käkilintu, we see the blend of tradition and innovation. The artist infuses the elements of a traditional lullaby into a creative vocal style and thus the song assumes a broader context than just its literal meaning. The Polska style perceived in the repetitive lines bestows a sense of familiarity. The most innovative kind of instrumentation helps drive a massive energy into the composition. The artist achieves a modern twist by introducing rhythms and elements inspired by the modern pop school. Therefore, instead of wearing the pensive tone of a lullaby, the song becomes a vibrant escape enjoining the listeners to take a break from the modern hassles and refresh a bit. In this experiment, Veera has honored the past while responding to contemporary expectations.

MINUETTI

“Minuetti” contrives a century-old melody by the celebrated fiddler Hammar-Kalle reshaping it into a string quartet arrangement. The process breathes some elegance into the piece. The unique blending of violin, five-string violin, cello, and double bass gives the song a majestic facelift. The dignified melody resulting from this experiment demonstrates what happens when folk and classical traditions are integrated in a seamless fashion. Nevertheless, the piece retains its original purpose and inspires us to dance to its ecstatic tunes. In this song, the artist has endeavored to preserve the tradition while infusing some new life into it.

RAUTAMAA

In the third and final track Rautamaa, we come across an inspiring journey through the Finnish psyche. The artist reflects on the concepts of resilience and hope amidst the gripping clutches of the winter. The incantatory chant opens up the song and then the melody builds steadily. The whole process mirrors how the spring’s light grows bold, emerging through the darkness. In this song, the artist has woven the folk-rock elements into acoustic instruments and touching vocals. The song ably captures both the harshness of winter and the promise of renewal. The concept of the “iron land,” symbolizing the frozen ground becomes a powerful metaphor in the hands of the artist to suggest endurance and transformation. This song thus becomes an emotional narrative of Finnish sisu, the grit that people experience during the darkest months. The song is suggestive of the journey from despair to hope. The melody steers the listeners toward the warmth and light of spring.

Take Away

Käkilintu’s theme is about continuity and transformation. It explores how traditions endure and adapt to the changes over time. Veera’s musical work bears testimony to this duality. Hence her music sounds fresh and timeless. In each of these three tracks, we find something unique, like the elegance of “Minuetti” and the inspiring symbolism of “Rautamaa.” The tracks of this album honor the Finnish tradition, while also expanding its boundaries. These tracks promise an auditory experience that is rooted as well as innovative.