Hannu Virtanen: Uhtuan kuu

Uhtuan kuu ('The Moon of Ukhta') features eight songs composed and written by Hannu Virtanen that have not previously been released on record. The oldest of these, “Nyyrikintie 8,” was written in 1977, and the most recent, “Aamun auringossa,” in 2015. In addition, the album concludes with four bonus tracks, compositions by Virtanen from the late 1970s and early 1980s, performed by the band Annastuuna.

Hannu began writing songs in the 1970s, penning the lyrics himself. Later, he composed music for folk traditions and texts by various lyricists. He also wrote his own lyrics—accounting for about a third of the songs. Today, his songs can be found on about 100 albums by Annastuuna, Kulkuripojat, Suomen Miesorkesteri, Iso Karhu, and Ahoy. Additionally, his songs have been recorded for The Finnish Broadcasting Company’s radio and TV programs.

From the very beginning, Hannu has composed his songs by singing while playing the guitar. In the 1980s, he began adding complete intros and interludes to his songs. The goal was for the composition, arrangement, and performance to strongly support the message of the lyrics.

Hannu invited the band Freija, with Maija Karhinen-Ilo as the soloist, to be the second performer of the “Uhtuan kuu” songs. Freija has been creating music in its own style, drawing inspiration from folk music and featuring a distinctive sound, since 2005. The band, composed of folk music professionals, has received recognition from many quarters. The second ensemble on the album is the duo Timo Alakotila & Maria Kalaniemi, featuring Tero Pajunen as the soloist. Alakotila and Kalaniemi are among the most respected musicians in the new folk music scene in Finland. They have played in various ensembles and performed in numerous concerts around the world. Tero Pajunen is a multifaceted singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His singing and songs can be heard on albums and on stage, particularly in the fields of folk music and children’s music. The bonus tracks feature the former Tampere-based band Annastuuna, supplemented by two additional musicians.

FORMAT: CD