HARAKKA BIALOIPOKKU [AKA: B THE MAGPIE]

Pekka Pohjola was classically trained pianist and violinist, but better known as bass player for Wigwam. He played with Wigwam between 1970 and 1972, and then went solo. His solo debut was strongly influenced by Zappa's Hot Rats, and this, second one, continued that direction, but adding more brass and piano.

The music on this album could be described as symphonic jazz-rock with deep roots in classic and Nordic folk. Compositions all are melodic, excellently played and arranged. It's a kind of Nordic fusion I really like - you will hardly find there funk or American jazz influences, but huge musical component is European classic tradition and cool, a bit melancholic Nordic folk songs. This tradition was continued by almost every great Nordic jazz fusion artist, from Ian Garbarek to Terje Rypdal. Possibly this music catch me because of similarity to Baltic folk musical culture as well.

So - perfectly played and arranged jazz-rock with many classic elements ( and one of greatest Finnish sax player Eero Koivistoinen participation), extremely professional compositions, nice melodies. Nordic Hot Rats? Characteristically for Nordic music not too much drive though.

Perfect album for jazz-rock and symphonic prog lover, one of Finnish prog cornerstone!

My rating is 4+!