Wishamalii are a phenomenon! The band consists of three adventurous musicians with very diverse cultural backgrounds. Shortly after its formation, the trio already sounds like a well-rehearsed ensemble that impresses live audiences with its unusual sounds, strong presence, and great charm. A special trademark of the band: pianist Kari Ikonen has invented the “Maqiano Microtuning System,” which enables him to play the Arabic harp Maqamat on the acoustic piano! The name Wishamalii refers to the Nordic way of reinterpreting the Arabic-Andalusian Muwashah chants. On their debut album “Al-Bahr,” Wishamalii combine tradition with creativity through a selection of original melodies, specially written and arranged for the band, along with some Muwashahat. These are one of the most important vocal music forms in traditional Arabic music. The best examples of this are the first and last songs of the album.

The three band members have diverse backgrounds: Palestinian-Jordanian singer, oud virtuoso, and composer Nemat Battah has been active in the world music scene in Finland and Sweden for some time. She has also taught at the Department of Global Music at the renowned Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. The multi-award-winning Finnish composer and pianist Kari Ikonen stands out even in the idiosyncratic Finnish music scene as an original. Ikonen is constantly seeking new inspirations, drawn from various musical cultures. He has toured the world as a solo pianist and with various Finnish and international groups. Ethiopian-born Abdissa ”Mamba” Assefa is one of Finland’s most prominent percussionists, bringing his expertise to numerous musical genres.

The title track “Al-Bahr” (The Sea) is an original composition by Kari Ikonen with lyrics by Jordanian musician Ra’ad Al-Zaben. The song addresses how the Mediterranean has become a grave for people seeking refuge from wars. We often forget that the Mediterranean has played an important cultural role for millennia!

“Our theme for this album is peace – and the desperate, constant hope and appeal for it. We want to highlight the difficult feelings and life paths of immigrants who wonder if the world will ever experience peace?” writes the band.

Wallathi Wallaka / Impressions of Deir Al-Balah / Lullaby / Al-Bahr / Tahmilat Bayat / Ya Dirati / La Paz Eterna / Salla Fina

Julkaisija: Nordic Notes 2024