Mari Boine

In the Arctic part of Europe, so far north that it is often missing from weather maps on television, lives a small minority people called the Sámi, more commonly known as the Lapps.

Divided by the borders of Finland, Norway, Sweden and the former USSR, the Sámi have struggled against harsh assimilation policies imposed upon them. By keeping their mother tongue intact, they have more than speech — they have storytelling, teaching, poetry and songs.

Mari Boine is an exciting new voice to emerge from this little-known culture. Her music is rooted in the Sámi heritage, but to this strong, almost primeval base, she has brought a fresh interpretation and new instrumentation. Mari's crystal voice cuts across the guitars, flute, charango and drum, its qualities both hauntingly spacious and painfully intimate.

The album Eight Seasons breaks new ground for Mari Boine. Produced by jazz keyboardist Bugge Wesseltoft, an electronic edge and more jazz sensibility are brought to the record. Mari Boine's extraordinary voice is still the center of attention, displaying once again what an amazingly gifted singer she is. Not only does she have power and range, but she also has the phrasing and interpretation that few singers bring. Most of the songs are in her native language, although she sings in English on two tracks. But no matter what language she sings in, the music is astounding.

— Courtesy Calabash Music