VA - Kalevala, A Finnish Progressive Rock Epic [2008] (3 x CDs)

FINNISH PROG

VA - Kalevala, A Finnish Progressive Rock Epic [2008] (3 x CDs)

This is a remarkable tribute to Finland's national epic, the Kalevala. Released by Musea Records, this ambitious 3 x CDs box set brings together a diverse array of progressive rock artists from around the world to interpret the legendary tales of Finnish mythology through music. The project was spearheaded by Marco Bernard, a key figure in the progressive rock community, and features contributions from over 30 bands.

The album's concept revolves around using only instruments and recording techniques reminiscent of the 1970s, capturing the vintage essence of classic progressive rock. Each track corresponds to a chapter or theme from the Kalevala, with bands like Haikara, Overhead, and Moongarden contributing their unique interpretations. The result is a rich tapestry of styles, blending symphonic, neo-progressive, and experimental elements into a cohesive narrative.

Highlights include Haikara's "The Creation / The Sowing," which sets the tone with its dramatic and symphonic flair, and Overhead's "Wainamoinen and Youkahainen / The Fate of Aino," which combines intricate instrumentation with emotive storytelling. The album also features international acts like Simon Says and Sinkadus, showcasing the global appeal of the Kalevala's themes.

The packaging is as impressive as the music, with artwork and liner notes that delve into the Kalevala's cultural significance and the creative process behind the album. This release is an educational journey into Finnish folklore.

VA - Kalevala, A Finnish Progressive Rock Epic is a must-listen for fans of progressive rock and mythology alike, offering a unique blend of storytelling and musical artistry that pays homage to Finland's rich cultural heritage. (B)

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Track lists

CD1

01 Haikara - The Creation, The Sowing 11:31

02 Overhead - Wainamoinen and Youkahainen, The Fate of Aino 8:05

03 Simon Says - Som floden flyter (As the River Runs) 7:07

04 Sinkadus - Trubadurens kval (The Minstrel's Cry) 5:44

05 Moongarden - Maiden of the Bow 10:22

06 Il Castello di Atlante - Ilmarinen Forges the Sampo 7:06

07 Magenta - Lemminkainen's Lament 6:59

08 Submarine Silence - The Three Battles 7:34

09 Metaphor - Raking the Bones 7:44

10 Clearlight - The Boat Builder, Searching for the Lost Word 10:33

CD2

01 Orchard - 3 7:34

02 Greenwall - The Wedding 14:27

03 Revelation - Uninvited Guest 10:07

04 Scarlet Thread - Pimeasta Pohjolasta 5:03

05 Mad Crayon - Il suono Dei Ricordi (The Sound of Memories) 6:22

06 Museo Rosenbach - Fiore di Vendetta (The Flower of Revenge) 6:42

07 Leviathan - Filo di Lama (Edge of a Blade) 10:35

08 Malibran - Strani Colori (Strange Colors) 7:31

09 Sophya Baccini - Malvagio Per Le Stelle (Mean Because of the Stars) 5:25

10 Elegant Simplicity - Ilmarinen's Bride of Gold 5:05

CD3

01 Qadesh - Ilmarinen's Fruitless Wooing 11:34

02 Cantina Sociale - Kantele 5:47

03 Grand Stand - Stormen (Tempest) 7:01

04 Germinale - La battaglia per il sampo (The Battle for the Sampo) 8:12

05 Aardvark - Uusi kantele (New Kantele) 5:53

06 Thonk - Kapittu 45,46 (Chapter 45,46) 6:39

07 Groovector - Tuletta (Fireless) 5:19

08 Whobodies - Pine 5:36

09 Randone & Tempore - Runo 8:58

10 Cafeine - Way is Open 11:43

11 Viima - Kaukomielen Kaipaus 3:04

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Music weaves itself into the fabric of our emotions, dances through the corridors of memory, and whispers to the soul of who we are. Sharing these stories deepens the connection, turning the experience into something timeless and profound.

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