Indie International music reviews

The 3rd album by Hedningarna, Tr�, became their most celebrated and most popular. It features an all out vocal assault from not only the two Finnish singers (Sanna and Tellu) but also by the men as well on Min Skog, R�ven, and VargTimmen. Instrumentally, the band combines their unique Scandinavian folk sound with modern rock production and instrumentation.
While the album does contain some of the band's strongest (and most lovingly bizarre) material -- Tuuli, R�ven, T�ss'on Nainen, and Tina Vieri to name a few -- some of the tunes don't really quite catch fire. It was certainly a groundbreaking album but I don't believe it is their best; Karelia Visa accomplishes that in a more sublime, mature way.
But this album still delivers the heathen roots/rock that makes this group so wonderful -- its a quirky, wild and addictive ride. Certainly worth owning.

I used to hate this type of music. Having been "brought up" by classical music, rock, and comtemporary film scores-I didn't consider these droning chants to be music at all-since I am more used to more melodious and polyphonic musical forms. My interest in folk started with Irish music, from which a love of drums and mouth music was born. While Irish music is powerful, for the most part it is very fair, calming and at times exuberant. The music of Scandinavia is pure power, raw, animalistic, and illicts the part that is most primal in all of us. It isn't exactly what you'd call a "pleasant listen." This is not for everyone and I usually don't listen to it around family for fear of getting kicked out of the house :) but it is very rousing and the beat and rhythm...like certain African or Native American soundscapes...gives you an interesting drive...like you could conquer all...not a safe thing to listen to if you hate someone...haha...I say this because certain tracks really resonates with emotions that associate with anger...but in a way, it helps you to let it out...

Like the English folk singers of the 1970s, Scandanavia's Hedningarna managed during the 1990s to combine a truly modern aesthetic with the most traditional values evident in their own folk tradition.

Because the folk traditions of Scandanavia are based on the use of wind instruments rather than stringed ones, the sound here is quite different from Fairport Convention or Anne Briggs' a capella folk. Hedningarna managed through their application of modern techniques to the most tradional of Scandanavian folk instruments to produce something that sounded and sounds quite otherworldly. The pipes on the opener "T�ssi On Nainen" are so dark and droning that the haunting, serious vocal melody becomes uplifting, whlst the dense rhythms of the following "Min Skog" thrust themselves so far upfront that it sounds like it's played in two eras at once - literally. The angry male vocals sound quite like an aggressive preacher: the effect is so emotional as to be memorable even when a listener cannot understand what is being said.

"Pornopolka" featured the strange yet amazingly heartfelt and rapid-fire rhythms typical of the Finnish language - resulting from its characteristic vowel harmony, and also characteristic of V�rttin�'s "Katariina" - together with an incredibly strange fiddle melody. The amazing melody of the language allows them to achieve a volume unimaginable in most of the world's languages. "S�gl�ten", on the other hand, featured a melodic yet fitting guitar break that added to the fire of the melodies, whilst "R�ven" was so eerie, intimate and unrestrained that it would touch any listener unconsciously.

The last three tracks were even more eccentric. The soft "Tuuli" featured the hypnotic vocals of Wimme Saari over a groove so hypnotic it was danceable; "T�ppmarschen", despite the emphasis on the pipes, sounds more like what we would call "folk" than anything, yet winds by its astonishing intimacy even to someone unfamiliar with the language. And "Tina Vieri" sounded almost accessible in its verses yet the melody of the language makes it so surprising that Sanna Kuori-Suoni and Taulu Paulasto can put off such a dark and beautiful piece: the stringed lutes sound like a piano.

In their amazing manipulation of traditional sounds to produce something new, Hedningarna were quite unlike anything most of you would have heard. Hard to understand, but few record will get under one's skin so quickly.

I was really excited to get this album, but was disappointed with the slightly less than mediocre quality of it. First of all, there was no production value at all. It sounded as though the musicians themselves recorded it in one of their garages and produced it on one of their laptops. While for some people or bands this isn't a problem, the band members themselves play their instruments and sing slightly better than you'd hear in a karaoke bar I suppose, so that might give you some idea about the production quality as well. I think the part that bothered me the most is that no matter the genre, I expect my music to be up to a minimum standard artistically, which this album really wasn't. I applaud their efforts to be sort of a light-hearted selection in a genre that sometimes takes itself a tad too seriously, but the quality simply wasn't there to carry off the whole package. I would not recommend buying this album unless you are already a fan or don't mind somewhat simplistic lyrics and trite rhyming schemes. I really really wanted to like it.

Several of the tracks presented here are stunning. 'Penny in the Well'...'Freya Shakti'...'Hills of America'...even an understated version of ELP's 'Lucky Man'. All deserve kudos.
The one problem I have with EMERALD ROSE though is their Celtic Warrior/Pagan/Wiccan/Folk schtick.
Why does it seem to me that the Wiccan belief has co-opted all things Pagan? If ER is more than Wiccan (ie goddess worship), then they should explore more of the Pagan world outside of the feminine principle. I mean they use the imagery of celtic-pagan-warrior enough, but there is more to the mythos than just the lighthearted pagan as posey+ ring-around-the-maypole imagery.
I feel EMERALD ROSE is on the verge of something important. It is imperative that they define themselves more specifically, musically. Go outside the SAFE zone, challenge their fanbase, add more diverse instruments (i mean the pennywhistle featured alot is VERY good,but) perhaps even add another member to tne band.
I just wish the music was grittier, more pagan,less Wiccan. I don't want them to slip into complacency. Sorry ER if I sound like I'm being disrespectful, after all, I'm the thorn in your foot, the worm in the wood. your friendly PICT, for now.

I first heard of Emerald Rose at the Bardic Circle on Witchvox. "Freya, Shakti", "Fire in the Head": these quickly became two of my favorite songs. The live Fire in the Head rose to my most-listened song very quickly. I lived off of MP3.com for some time.

When I came to buy an ER CD, this was high on the list. I came into it loving Freya, Shakti and Fire in the Head. "Pagan Girl" I had heard wonderful things about (I understand why: a GREAT song).

Penny in the Well and Merry May Folk are just awesome songs. This is my CD of choice when I drive, now.


All in all, I am able to listen to this CD almost non-stop, skipping only 2 songs that I don't particularly like.

I HIGHLY recommend this CD as one of the greatest musical compilations that I own.

To find a cd strictly devoted to the music of O'Carolan was delightful, but to find one crafted by such skilled musicians was simply wonderful! This is
music that will warm the hearts of any proud Irish-American, and keep the toes tapping. It's a great ode to the great man who composed these stunning pieces!
I can't express how accomplished these musicians are, and how beautiful this music is. This music is so diverse, so timeless! Run, don't walk, and get your credit card and purchase this cd!
You'll be glad you did! Thanks to Joe Et Al for creating this lovely gem of a recording! Slant!

Cool! (This is very nice music and my aunt says it makes for a GREAT St Patrick's Day gift---for all ages! The music is varied and light,....)I listen to it with her in her car all the time.

miss emily
(as told to her aunt)

"Harper's Reverie" is really a fine effort, with great playing and superb as well as fresh arrangements. Possibly one of the best tributes to the music of O'Carolan. Massimo Ferro Radio Voce Spacio 1 "Un Monda di Musica" ("A World of Music") San Michele, Italy

Beautiful voice & his island songs(esp.These Islands)are exceptional, but most of the others songs were very popular 70's/disco-ish songs. Reminescent of Johnny Mathis' comeback of the 70's. If you are into that then you will love this album. I would have preferred ALL island/Hawaiian songs instead.

Almost Paradise Na Hoku Hano Hano Award Winning Song of the Year '2000 under the �Danny Couch Record Independant Recording Artist label.
Theme song from Miss Universe Pageant/Adopted Theme Song for Land of Hawaii used in worldwide Commercial promoting Hawaii Visitors and Tourist Bureau 1998 Hawaii Music Awards Best Song, Best Singer and Best Album of the Year. Currently being used by the state to promote and entice major conventions to their beautiful Convention Center.
Several versions of this song were written, and the second version is an instrumental, which is recorded on his Cd
"Something To Remember"
Originally the Almost Paradise CD was going to be titled after his composition "THESE ISLANDS" and was to have a different cover. Danny renamed the album shortly before it's release and changed the cover. Now Almost Paradise has been given yet another cover "05 from what is posted on Amazon.
"These Islands" was first released as a track on Danny Couch's 1997 album, "Almost Paradise." It was recognized for the song's potential value as a theme for a visitor-oriented marketing campaign and so it was part of the Miss Universe Pageant in 1998. The song was more than two years old when Danny re-released it as single but HARA considered it "new." Sometimes known by it's verse. "Have You Seen These Islands" or "This is Aloha" a well-written and always will be a beautiful ode to Hawaii, is currently still found at the top of the charts, and among the most requested songs both in the islands and with those island music lovers here on the mainland, as well as heard around the world.
�Like the music? Visit Danny's Appreciation Site for authorized debuts of his CD's and more information. Fan Club Available
http://www.dannycouchfanaddicts.com

While on our honeymoon, my wife and I cherished a splended evening at a Luau on the island of Kauai. During the Luau, we happened to here "These Islands." Not knowing who was singing that song, we ventured out the next day in search of the answer. We stumbled upon a vendor selling various types of music. The man knew exactly what we were looking for. You don't know how powerful that song is until you hear it. The entire CD is great, but "These Islands" can carry you right back to Hawaii no matter where you are in the world.

Everyone interested should check out grasshoppertakeover.com and get a copy of 'Elephant Dreams'! This is the best CD I have ever heard. Just saw these guys at Ranch Bowl and it could not have been a better show. If you have the chance, check em out live... especially if they play with Lovetap, Anchondo or Pomeroy!

This CD is excellent. If you get a chance to see them in concert, go! Curt, Bob, James and Michael are great guys to hang out with. They aren't afraid to talk to their fans and they put on a great set. go to www.grasshoppertakeover.com and check them out.

I was introduced to this band by a buddy from Lincoln, NE. I had never heard of them prior to this. Their music blew me away!! They have mastered the music and lyrics. It's good to hear they are gaining recognition. They deserve it. Next on my list is to try and get to a live show. Listen to GTO and you'll be happy you did.

I came by this music by accident when working late one night, I bought it simply because the name appealed to me. I played the cd whilst working on some new designs and found it to be very beautiful and thought provoking. Absolutely wonderful..I've played it many many times since, I shall be looking out for any more albums by Jim West.

I have been fan of Al and the band since the beginning in the early 80s, and have known for many years that the band was extremely talented. I am sorry it took me several years to stumble upon Jim West's amazing collection of Hawaiian acoustic guitar instrumentals. This CD instantly transports the listener to a tropical island paradise, with barely a hint of hula girls or tourist stuff. I already knew that Jim could make a guitar sound like any musical group or genre, but this is something else again. Just heavenly. I think the music could inspire some Hawaiian travel on my part -- if the islands are as serene as Jim's music, I need to go there soon. Even if Weird Al is not your cup of tea, don't miss this treat!

I use Celtic and other types of folk music for meditation and also when I am walking a labyrinth. This is one of my very favorite CD for that use. I find it very mesmerizing. It is one of the most played cds in my collection of over 160. I and it very relaxing and never tire of listening to it.

I am anxiously waiting for Jim to release at new cd. I vacation in Hawaii every and plan to go to Maui this year and I will make an attempt to locate him. I hope he performs in the Hana area.

Just a quick update on Jed Marum's STREETS OF FALL RIVER album; two tracks from this Boston Road Record release have been nominated for the JPFolk [...] Celtic Original Song of the Year, 2002. LOOK AHEAD TOMMY and the FIGHTING TIGERS OF IRELAND both made the top 20 songs for this category and will be considered for the finals in March of 2003. The nominees were chosen from among some 7,200 albums and over 110,00 songs!

Jed's newest album, THE SOUL OF A WANDERER (released Nov 2002) is also available on Amazon.com. The record was produced by Paul Mills at the Millstream in Toronto Canada and features; Brian McNeill, Rick Fielding and Curly Boy Stubbs.

Patrick Malloy, Director of Artist Relations, Boston Road Records

This man has a way with imagery that is simply stunning! I am a performer in this genre, and am not easily impressed. But I must tell you that Jed clearly does his homework. His lyrics show that he not only has a way with words, but he does his research as well. Put this together with astoundingly beautiful work on his instrument of choice, and you have a sure winner. I would commend this CD to all other musicians and songwriters as an example of the craft and the art.

Superbly good work! Jed has a wonderful voice that tells the stories in a way that appears to have been written long before their time. Fine guitar work, excellent back up vocals, and a true story line. You can't go wrong with this album - puts Bob Dylan to comercial shame -

I bought this disc mainly on the strength of Metts�n Tytto, which I heard on the Nordic Roots Music Sampler CD. Also, I felt that their "best of" album (which is a good starting point for new fans) was woefully lacking in tracks from this album. I wondered if Karelia Visa was worth the effort. But thankfully I took the chance -- I have never been more glad to be wrong.
The songs on this album take the listener on a wonderful nordic trip (along with the liner notes and booklet photos) that is most memorable. From the aforementioned Metts�n Tytto and other upbeat numbers like Mit� Min� and Alkusanat, to the haunting, rootsy atmospheres of Ukkonen and Viima, this album weaves a spell that is hard to resist. Every track is worth hearing. It is probably also the most accessible of the band's albums for newbies, as their earlier albums such as Tr� and Kaksi! are more angular and experimental.
So if you are hesitating whether or not to get this disc, wait no more. This is a great example of nordic folk music -- with a heathen twist of course!

As a child, Finland was an enigma to me.The little impression I did have, suggested it to be quite bland, and the people reserved.As I grew older, the icey lands of our planet's north built in me a sub-conscious awe.Now, its well and truly in my awareness -the cold, the isolation, the constant wind, and the vast intact wilderness.This band introduced me to the people and culture of Finland (And on other albums, Sweden).The playfulness of spirit lives well in rural Finland, and this album shows it up well.
Hedningarna are usually quite aggressive, using 'scratchy' and 'drone-like' instruments.The females of the band usually sing like witches (but with perfect pitch).On this album though, all is sweet and pristine.The (acoustic)instruments are clear, and spaced apart.The female singers are playful and child-like.The melodies are quite subtle, but aluring.Hedningarna's other albums feel very Swedish, even in the presence of the Finnish elements.But this one feels like Finland.Apart from the quality of creation, and some tell-tale Hedningarna traits, this album is totally different to anything they've done before.
"Beautiful culture plays here."

Firstly, let's quell the rumor that Hedningarna is mere "world music". Sure, their tunes are based largely on traditional Scandinavian folk music. But Hedningarna takes those songs to an entirely different --and entirely modern-- level. New-agey types who get off on sanitized world muzakky note-stringing (of whatever pseudo-ethnic stripe) would be completely put off by these wildly innovative heathens.

The tone ranges from downright demented grunge to soaring flights of quasi-religious ecstasy, usually all within the space of a song. Underpinned by three masterful Swedish multi-instrumentalists, the two Finnish women vocalists take the listener on a tour of heaven, hell, and everything in between. The vocalists are really the icing on the cake, sometimes sounding like nothing so much as blood-drunk harpies circling a fresh kill, sometimes like God's private chorus. Dissonance and consonance are likewise blended into an unpredictable --but always delightful-- mix.

In terms of accessibility, this particular Hedningarna album may prove more accessible than their others. Having said that, if you're intrigued by Karelia Visa but can't find it, don't hesitate to try Tra, Kaksi and Fire (for a more rock/punk sound), or Hippjokk (for a club mix-like sound). Their first album, Hedningarna, I'll leave for the world music purists.

I'm tempted to recommend this for everyone, but it will probably only appeal to the musically intrepid. But to the courageous go the greater rewards, an aphorism that certainly applies here.

One of my all-time favorites.

Proximity Effect. (Australian Electra Records version)

Nada Surf is a strange band. You think you have them figured out. Then the pull something different and unique off.

Us fans of "High/Low" got a surprise when we cracked this 30 dollar Australia only version open. (This was back before it was widely availible in the states). The punky energy that radiates from stem to stern on "High/Low" is downshifted considerably. It is replaced by at times a more sullen and morose feeling.

That is what made me stop following them. "High/Low" was brillant for its musical umph. It picked you up. Featuring fast tempos, swagger and a fabulous wit. "Proximity Effect" loses much of that. The depressing feeling about this record just isn't enjoyable to me. It may connect well to teenagers, but songs of angst, sorrow and sometimes preaching just don't radiate with someone in their 30s (me).

As for the songs you get a varied selection of slow softer numbers along with heavier rockers. Subject matters runs the gamut from lecturing machoness, feeling out of control to wonder what the hell is wrong with people. There is no question the band has something to say. However, as mentioned previously these are subject matters best related to by younger people.

My personal favorite track is the bonus cut "Spooky" its the only on this album I come back to. Maybe because I relate to the subject the matter. The song though is beautiful for its post-relationship sadness and anger. Oh, yah and the song rocks.

There are many people who love what this record ushered in: Nada Surf the angst ridden, morose and thoughtful artists. I for one prefer them being smart, fun, speedy, sassy with something say.

This album is great, it may even be better than their first. i have a hard time believing that it is only now being released in the states. They definitely should not be considered a one hit wonder (Popular). If radio people had any brains they would play '80 windows' now, it is an amazing tune, better than anything Pearl Jam or the Smashing Pumpkins have done recently. If you like rock and roll go get this cd now! The best songs on this great album are: 1. Hyperspace 2. Amateur 3. Why Are You So Mean To Me 6. 80 Windows 13. Robot

There is not much i can say but that your cd collection is not compliete without this album.....so........BUY IT RIGHT NOW...what are you waiting for

The instrumentals on this cd are okay, but the vocals are just sickeningly sweet. I listened to the cd twice because I wanted to like it based on all of the glowing reviews it has gotten. The vocals, especially on Braes O' Strathblane, were so saccharine, I had to turn it off. Throwing in a few scottish pronunciations done in an American accent just made it worse. I regret I wasted my money on this treacle.

I bought this CD a little over a year ago, and I still listen to it several times a week. It almost sounds better each time I listen to it. I love the mix of traditional irish melodies with new instruments and with other genres of music. I've been listening to some of the free downloads, and am hoping Green Man will make another CD!

You will find that this is an amazing mix of celtic music with guitars and drums. A beautiful blend of traditional and non traditional which spices each and every song in this album. Soothing vocals adds to the already impressive sounds. They are definetely NOT a one hit wonder. A wonderful CD that I recommend to anyone that wants to go from the Orchestra to the EDGE!