Harri Kuusijärvi:
aallot
Mika Kallio, drums
Harri Kuusijärvi, augmented accordion
Jori Huhtala, double bass
In his latest project Aallot, the accordionist Harri Kuusijärvi fuses his new electronically extended accordion with the acoustic warmth of the jazz rhythm section of bassist Jori Huhtala and drummer Mika Kallio. The trio collides Nordic serenity with vibrant jazz energy to create a soundscape that is earthy, minimalistic and irresistibly groovy - and probably something you've never heard before.
Harri Kuusijärvi is one of the most distinctive figures in accordion music today. He is known for his open-minded projects that push the traditional boundaries of what the accordion can achieve as an instrument. Kuusijärvi has received several recognitions, including being named Finnish Accordion Artist of the Year in 2023, an Emma nomination for Best Classical Album in 2021, and a nomination for one of the Nordic countries' most prestigious art prizes, the Teosto Prize, in 2020.
The band's debut studio session was broadcast on YLE Jazzklubi in June 2024. The debut album 'Aallot' was released in January 2025 on the Flame Jazz Records.
"It's one of the freshest jazz LPs you'll hear this year and
I highly recommend you get with the Finnish space program."
"Despite the fact that it's relatively accessible and melody focussed music,
it's also innovative and exciting. This is not music I've heard before. 5/6"
"Joined by Finnish jazz luminaries Jori Huhtala on bass and Mika Kallio on percussion,
the trio moves like rippling water—undulating, drifting, and carrying a quiet power."
"A fresh, experimental take on Nordic jazz that effortlessly finds its place in playlists for instrumental trips,
intellectual chill-outs, or simply for those who love music that stretches far beyond conventional boundaries."
"Aallot, despite its consistently melancholic mood - corresponding to the title meaning waves
- is an album full of life and ideas."
"A fresh perspective to contemporary jazz by reimagining the accordion
with innovative textures and processes, expanding its interpretative possibilities."
The trio's charming sound is inspired by nature, with an arsenal of electronic effects generating striking contrasts.
Sonic nuances from prog to fusion serve to enrich the trio's earthiness."
HIFIMAAILMA
"Aallot takes accordion to new heights, but at the same time rises well above mere product presentation.
It's all about the lively communication and swinging groove created by a dynamic trio."
"You can't help but stop for this album;
in all its delicacy, it is so intense and powerful, so comforting and relatable,
that taking a moment is the only option."
"The ears are the most ruthless of judges and
the pair of ears on the undersigned like what they hear very much. ✭✭✭✭"
"Kuusijärvi and his collaborators have created a great solo album
that continues the current triumph of broadly understood folk music."
"It’s easy to immerse oneself in these bubbling soundscapes. ✭✭✭✭"
ILKKA–POHJALAINEN
Album Out Now!
LIVE
24.1. Ylläs Jazz Blues
25.1. Pello, Koulukeskuksen auditorio
6.2. Jazzanti, Helsinki
7.2. Flame Jazz Club, Turku
3.3. East Coast Jazz Club, Kotka
28.3. Porvoo Jazz Club
11.4. Rimpparemmin Musaklubi, Rovaniemi
14.5. Kuopio Jazz & Blues
Photos: Jori Huhtala
Booking:
M. Agency
margit.ojaniemi [at] gmail [dot] com