A Saami Requiem

Catalogue No: TOCN0017
EAN/UPC: 5060640070172
Release Date: 2022-03-18
Composer: Gunnar Idenstam, Ola Stinnerbom
Artists: Erik Weissglas, Gunnar Idenstam, Henrietta Wallberg, Ola Stinnerbom, Rafael Sida Huizar

A Saami Requiem is an extraordinary meeting-place of musical cultures – western classical, Sámi yoik, Nordic folk-dance, electric rock, blues, improv and more. It takes the form of a journey to Saajva, the Kingdom of Death in Sámi religious practice. With it the Swedish organist Gunnar Idenstam and Sámi artist Ola Stinnerbom provide a parallel to the Christian Requiem, with Ola Stinnerbom as Noite, the shaman who acts as guide to the Kingdom of Death – and back to this life, celebrated in the uplifting closing hymn. Some of the percussion sounds are sampled from traditional Sámi drums made by Ola Stinnerbom after ancient models; the electric guitars provide a link to rock groups like Deep Purple and King Crimson; and Gunnar Idenstam’s unmistakable style marries the French organ tradition with the alluring world of Swedish folk-music.

Ola Stinnerbom, yoik (Tracks 2–14)
Gunnar Idenstam, organ (Tracks 1–7, 9–14)
Henrietta Wallberg, vocalist (Tracks 7, 8, 10)
Erik Weissglas, guitars (Tracks 3–6, 9, 12–14)
Rafael Sida Huizar, percussion (Tracks 3–6, 8, 10–14)

1 review for A Saami Requiem

  1. :

    ‘Stinnerbom and Idenstam are totally committed to the concept and give their all in this performance. Their collaborators contribute their talents successfully as well, although the full effect may only be achievable by attending a live performance. The recording is excellent, with a wide dynamic range and good balances. Despite the unusual combination of performers, no one is left unheard[…].

    If this collision of musical worlds intrigues you, A Saami Requiem will reward your curiosity. If you are on the fence, as I was, about such a project, take the risk. Some aspect of its creativity will capture your attention.’

    —Christopher Little, MusicWeb International

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