Ameriikan laulu by Aallotar

Aallotar's music is an exploration of one tradition from two perspectives. Violinist/vocalist Sara Pajunen – Finnish-American – and accordionist/vocalist Teija Niku – a Finn – use their common musical heritage as a starting point for original “chamber-folk.” Together they create new sounds that reflect their differing contemporary cultures and shared roots.

Since its formation in fall 2013 Aallotar has made numerous appearances in the US and performed at leading European festivals such as the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival (Finland) and Sounds of the North (Gdańsk, Poland). Their lithe instrumentals and beautiful vocal harmonies in both Finnish and English demonstrate how gracefully traditional and modern folk music can speak together. With their second album ‘Ameriikan laulu’ (Nordic Notes 2018), the ensemble’s distinctive sound is even more adventurous, elegant and profound.

'This one has that extra elusive appeal, its lightness of touch and melodiousness of repertoire matching the skill of (the musicians)....' fRoots UK

‘…Passion and integrity shine through on Ameriikan Laulu, with deeply felt arrangements demonstrating high-quality musicianship.’ Songlines Magazine

'AMERIIKAN LAULU' was recorded in Helsinki in November 2017 and released in 2018 by German label Nordic Notes.

A transatlantic collaboration that uses Finnish and Finnish-American
music as a starting point for an original 'chamber-folk’ style.