in Reviews

A winning combination

by Riikka Hiltunen

"Stop! Listen! The tempi and moods keep changing, but the familiar and tested combination forms the backbone of Wimme and Rinne's new album, Human."

Stop! Listen! The album’s opening track Elle entices listeners to slow down and concentrate. The first invitation is delivered through a yoik by Norwegian guest artist Elle Sofe Henriksen, coupled with Rinne’s bass clarinet. The soundscape changes in an instant when the briskly ticking beat on the track Wind captivates even the most easily distracted listener. 

The tempi and moods keep changing, but the familiar and tested combination forms the backbone of this album: Wimme’s descriptive, mostly wordless yoik, Tapani Rinne’s wind instruments and the electro-acoustic soundscapes produced By Tuomas Norvio and Konsta Muffler Mikkonen for this album.

After being charmed by the rich, more acoustic soundscape of the album Mun (2010), I feel that this album revisits Wimme’s and Rinne’s earlier collaborations even in excess. On the other hand, rich effects can be created with very little: Womb is one of the gems of this album, captivating listeners with its steady drum beat, restrained yoik phrases and intriguing bass clarinet harmonies.

WIMME & RINNE: Human
Rockadillo Records / Zen Master Records 2017
ZENCD 2164


Translation: Hanna-Mari Latham