Luutarha is released this November 8th by Soliti Recordings.
“Lähteet laaksojen” is the second single from Henna Emilia Hietamäki’s forthcoming sophomore album Luutarha, to be released in November via Soliti Recordings.
“Lähteet laaksojen” is a very free arrangement and translation of the English Renaissance song “Weep You No More, Sad Fountains”, the first notation of which was published under the name of John Dowland in 1603. John Downland (1563–1626), who worked as a lute player and composer in the courts of England and Denmark, stood out from his contemporaries with exceptionally melancholic songs. It is unclear whether the lyrics and melody come from an older folk song or if they are Dowland’s own writing. “Lähteet laaksojen” is released on the 27th Sept.
The original version and Hietamäki’s translation can both be interpreted either as a song about death and sorrow or as a gentle lullaby. Many old songs are both.
Listen to “Lähteet laaksojen”
“Both the melody and the story of the text are quite different from the original, but there are still a lot of similarities left. While making the record, I have been thinking about the path of folk songs and poems and how there is no correct version, but each bearer of the baton makes their own interpretation.”
Credits for “Lähteet laaksojen”
Vocals and guitar: H.E.H.
Cello: Juuli Jokinen
Acoustic bass: Tytti Roto
Percussion: Hanna Perälä
Lyrics: H. E. H.
Composition: John Dowland & H.E.H.
Adaptation: H. E. H.
Recording and mixing: Sakke Vänttinen
Mastering: Ville Valavuo
Photography: Tekla Valy
Album sleeve: Melina Paakkonen
Initial Reaction
“Henna’s translation captures the ambiguity of the original text, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a personal level. Fans of folk music and those who appreciate the beauty of traditional melodies will appreciate this modern take on a Renaissance classic.”
Purple Melon
“We’re dealing with something on the verge of the ephemeral, with a voice that seems to break free from another era, yet somehow remains relevant.” Indie Boulevard
“With a delicate acoustic folk atmosphere, the song blends gentle guitar work, layered vocals, and subtle string elements, creating an emotive and elegant piece.” Wax Vinyl Records
“…offers us a moment as pretty as it is unique, with this musical moment inspired by a song from the 16th century.” Djolo
Henna Emilia Hietamäki : Luutarha (Soliti 114)
Release date: 08.11.2024
Also available as a limited edition vinyl.
Luutarha album sleeve by Melina Pääkkönen
- Tuu tuu tuonelahan
- Kultalintu
- Lähteet laaksojen
- Maan alle
- Joki
- Kuusen juuret
- Itkupaju
- Villisorsa
- Luinen lautta on koristeltu kukkasin
- Armo suuri rajaton
Produced by Henna Emilia Hietamäki
Recording and mixing Henna Emilia Hietamäki and Sakke Vänttinen
Mastering: Ville Valavuo
Album sleeve: Melina Paakkonen
Luutarha is a collection of new interpretations of old folk songs and folk poetry. There are new translations and arrangements of American, English and Finnish songs from the 17th‒19th centuries, as well as new compositions for old Finnish folk poems. The unifying theme is death, facing it or longing for it. Many of the songs on the album are made especially to be played at funerals. Luutarha (“Bone Garden”) was an early suggestion as a Finnish name for the cemetery.
Four of the ten songs from Luuutarha have been recorded in Sakke Vänttinen’s Rock Alley Studio in Hamina with the band, and six songs have been played and produced by Hietamäki alone. Tytti Roto (bass), Hanna Perälä (drums), Juuli Jokinen (cello) and Sakke Vänttinen (vocals) have made their mark on the album. In addition to the guitar, Hietamäki has played the harmonium, Finnish zither, piano and various keyboards on the album.
Henna Emilia Hietamäki by Tekla Väly
Reaction to “Maan alle” the first single from Luutarha
“Chillingly beautiful music” Rumba
“chilling and beautiful” Setlistmx
“It’s more like Julie Andrews singing to a group of fellow nuns before eventide prayers. You won’t be dancing to it but you won’t be waiting until your own funeral to want to hear it again, either.” Nordic Music Central
Upcoming Shows
10.10. Olutravintola Hannikainen, Turku w/ Topias Tiheäsalo (solo)
9.11. Linna Bar, Helsinki w/ Topias Tiheäsalo (solo)
5.12. Typo, Helsinki w/ Thomas Ignatius (solo)
20.12. Bistro Vilja, Tampere w/ Kadonnut Manner (band)
21.12. Album release show, G Livelab, Helsinki w/ Kadonnut Manner (band)