Finnish accordionist and composer Teija Niku releases her fourth solo album “Tovi”, a self-produced work that continues the artistic path of her previous solo album “Hetkessä” (2019).

All the music on the album is again composed, arranged, and recorded by Niku herself. Many of the pieces draw from Nordic folk dance styles, yet the album also features the Balkan-inspired sound world characteristic of her music. The more improvisational pieces spotlight Niku’s instrument, revealing its wide tonal range and expressive color palette.

Unlike its predecessor — which, as its name suggests, was created “in the moment” — Tovi evolved slowly over more than five years. The creative process was shaped by major life events: the pandemic, becoming a mother, and the loss of Niku’s own mother. The result is an album that reflects these transitions — a soundscape balancing melancholy with luminous bursts of joy.

Helsinki-based Teija Niku (born 1982) is an accordionist and composer known for her expertise in Nordic and Balkan folk music, as well as for creatively blending these traditions. Niku is praised for her brilliant sense of melody and inventive approach to arranging. Her instrument’s expansive range, combined with its rich dynamic and technical versatility, forms the foundation of her uniquely expressive solo performances.

Under her own name, Teija Niku has released three solo albums: ”Hetkessä” (Ääniä, 2019), ”Memento” (Teija Niku, 2017), and ”Finsko Pajdusko” (Rockadillo Records, 2011). She is also known for the bands Polka Chicks, Karuna, Aallotar, and Teija Niku & Grupa Balkan, as well as for her duo with pianist-composer Juha Kujanpää. Niku has performed across Europe in various ensembles and completed twelve tours in the USA. She also serves as the Artistic Director of the Haapavesi Folk Music Festival and teaches part-time in the Folk Music Department of the Sibelius Academy.

1. Ohto
2. Seitsemän
3. Paholaisen polska
4. Elokuu
5. Finsko Dajchovo
6. Tyrskyt
7. Eteenpäin
8. Tovi
9. Poloneesi äidille