Wimme

The voice and throat technique of singer Wimme Saari is based on the traditions of his nomadic ancestors (previously called Lapplanders) but they also represent a new direction in the tradition where a yoik is not only inspired by elements of nature but also by the state of Texas! Again, Wimme collaborates with members of Finnish ambient group RinneRadio to create this unique sound. As their relationship grows closer, the atmosphere of Cugu pulls you deeper into the enveloping dreamscape of Wimme.

The deeply emotional yoik vocals are the center around which the ambient music floats. The vocals are recorded true to the real spirit of the yoik: every vocal part is reproduced "as is," unaltered, strictly not edited or sampled. The yoik comes first and the musical instruments provide the coloring and underlining of the themes. Cugu is the third CD from Wimme and it is perhaps their best. Cugu completely integrates the diverse elements of Sámi yoik (chant), strings, winds, keyboards, and samples.

Tapani Rinne and Jari Kokkonen, two main musicians from Finnish techno jazz band RinneRadio, and Matti Wallenius on acoustic string instruments, give shape and depth to Wimme's yoik. Fuzzy synthesizers, strings, alto sax, keyboards and animal samples swirl in and around Wimme's voice creating an eerie, spiritual and atmospheric effect. —Courtesy Calabash Music