Jonne Järvelä, one of Finland’s most internationally successful metal musicians, will release Harjumaa, the new solo album by his namesake project, on 18 December. Best known as the frontman of Korpiklaani and one of the leading Finnish names in folk metal, Järvelä continues along the musical path explored on his two previous solo albums, Jonne (2014) and Kallohonka (2017).
The album’s title track, Harjumaa, is now available on all major streaming platforms.
“Melancholic yet hopeful, Harjumaa explores the power of nature within us. A person can be like a tree, standing strong on deep roots despite all the hardships they may face. As the chorus says, the sun always emerges from behind the grey clouds – and people, too, can find their feet again,” Jonne Järvelä explains.
Jonne’s songs are often snapshots of a particular moment, and this one is no exception.
“The song started taking shape on an acoustic guitar. When I was thinking about what to write lyrics about, I looked out of the window and saw a ridge covered with pine trees. So I thought I might as well write about that.”
The JONNE line-up also features familiar names from the Finnish music scene. On bass is Kärtsy Hatakka, best known for his work with Waltari, while accordion duties are handled by Sami Perttula, who is also a member of Korpiklaani. On violin is John Ryan, who has featured on Jonne’s previous solo releases and is particularly known as a long-time member of folk metal band Cruachan.
The album also features a number of guest musicians, including Kasper Mårtenson, known for his work with Amorphis, Barren Earth, Mannhai and Turisas, as well as the late Ben Woods, a guitarist renowned for his unique fusion of flamenco and metal.
Currently touring Canada with Korpiklaani, Järvelä will return home ahead of December and the release of his solo album. Harjumaa will be celebrated in advance on 11 December at The Riff in Helsinki, where the album will be played in its entirety at a preview event open to the public. Hosted by Jonne himself, the event starts at 6 pm. Places for the preview are limited.
JONNE line-up:
Jonne Järvelä: vocals, guitar, mandolin, dobro, bass, percussion, programming, keyboards
Jaana Järvelä: vocals, shaman drum
Yoko Perttula: hurdy-gurdy, tin whistle
Sami Perttula: accordion
Kärtsy Hatakka: vocals, bass
John Ryan: violin
Guest musicians:
Jesper Anastadiasis: double bass, electric bass
Samuli Mikkonen: drums
Kasper Mårtenson: piano
Riikka Jaakkola: backing vocals
Yovan Nagwetch: Indigenous chants and flute
Ben Woods (R.I.P.): guitar
