Korpiklaani: Finnish metal, Lapland roots and the folk energy of Jonne Järvelä’s band

The vast majority of folk-metal bands began by playing metal and only later became interested in traditional music, incorporating its elements into their style. Korpiklaani’s music resulted from the opposite process. In 1993, Lahti-based Jonne Järvelä founded Shamaani Duo, a purely folk project preserving the music of the Sámi, who have inhabited Europe’s northern territories for millennia. Shaman followed in 1997, taking an even more meticulous approach to one of the continent’s oldest musical traditions.

Six years later, fans received a shock: instead of pursuing further initiation, shaman Järvelä decided simply to have fun. Korpiklaani was born, answering what might happen if ancient Sámi people played electric guitars. The leader abandoned joik and signed with metal label Napalm Records, resulting in debut “Spirit of the Forest”, effortlessly combining Lapland folk and precise thrash-metal pounding.

Järvelä’s ancestral spirits would probably throw up their hands at cheerful lyrics describing drinking adventures and endless parties. Most of the band’s songs are in Finnish, which clearly did not deter international audiences from quickly falling in love with Korpiklaani. The language of enjoyment proved remarkably universal. The group have released ten albums so far, the latest in 2018, superbly demonstrating the Järvelä crew’s unique style. “Kulkija” brings incredible energy, irresistible melodies and fast humppa rhythms alongside doom experiments and an acoustic ballad unusual for the band.

Korpiklaani love surprising their audiences, who flock to concerts and have a wonderful time. In Poland, the band earned their reputation through an outstanding Przystanek Woodstock performance eleven years ago. Since then, almost every tour has included the lands around the Vistula and Oder.

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