The Ethereal Soundscape of Edward Vesala: A Deep Dive into “Lumi”

Introduction:

In the vast and diverse world of jazz, few musicians have managed to carve a niche as unique and evocative as Finnish drummer and bandleader Edward Vesala. His 1987 album “Lumi,” recorded in June 1986 and released under the ECM label, stands as a testament to his innovative approach and distinctive sound. This blog post delves into the intricacies of “Lumi,” exploring its tracks, the ensemble behind it, and its reception in the jazz community.

Background:

Edward Vesala, born Martti Vesala, was a pioneering figure in Finnish jazz. His work often straddled the line between free jazz and a more structured, yet still deeply expressive, form of the genre. “Lumi” marks a significant point in Vesala’s career, being his return to ECM after a decade-long hiatus since his last release with the label, “Satu.”

Recording and Ensemble:

“Lumi” was recorded at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland, a studio renowned for its high-quality recordings and intimate atmosphere. The album’s production was overseen by Manfred Eicher, the founder of ECM Records, who is known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to bring out the best in his artists.

The ensemble featured on “Lumi” is a testament to Vesala’s vision and ability to bring together a diverse group of musicians to create a cohesive sound. The lineup includes:

• Edward Vesala – drums, percussion
• Esko Heikkinen – trumpet, piccolo trumpet
• Tom Bildo – trombone, tuba
• Pentti Lahti – alto saxophone, baritone saxophone, flute
• Jorma Tapio – alto saxophone, clarinet, bass clarinet, flute
• Tapani Rinne – tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, clarinet
• Kari Heinilä – tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute
• Taito Vainio – accordion
• Raoul Björkenheim – guitar
• Iro Haarla – piano, harp
• Häkä – bass

The Tracks:

1. The Wind – 9:00: “The Wind” opens the album with a reimagined version of a tune from Vesala’s earlier work, “Nan Madol.” The track sets the tone for the album with its ethereal and almost otherworldly sound.
2. Frozen Melody – 4:19: “Frozen Melody” captivates listeners with its beautiful and haunting melody, expertly rendered by Pentti Lahti on alto saxophone. His performance masterfully bridges the gap between the familiar and the avant-garde, highlighting both his technical prowess and emotional depth.
3. Calypso Bulbosa – 4:52: “Calypso Bulbosa” introduces a surprising twist with its electric and slightly funky vibe, driven by electronic drums. This track exemplifies Vesala’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional jazz.
4. Third Moon – 2:53: “Third Moon” is a shorter piece that serves as a contemplative interlude. The sparse arrangement allows the listener to appreciate the subtle nuances of each instrument, highlighting the precision and skill of the musicians.
5. Lumi – 6:36: The title track, “Lumi,” meaning “snow” in Finnish, encapsulates the album’s overall aesthetic. It is a composition that evokes the cold, stark beauty of a winter landscape, with its slow, deliberate pacing and rich harmonic textures.
6. Camel Walk – 4:58: “Camel Walk” stands out with its rhythmic complexity and playful character. The intricate interplay between the instruments makes it a captivating listen.
7. Fingo – 3:23: “Fingo” offers a nod to marching band music with its jaunty rhythm and spirited horn lines. This track adds a touch of whimsy to the album, showcasing Vesala’s diverse influences and creative approach.
8. Early Messenger – 2:31: “Early Messenger” is another brief but impactful piece. Its minimalistic arrangement focuses on the saxophones, creating a sense of intimacy and introspection.
9. Together (Edward Vesala, Tomasz Stańko) – 6:14: The album closes with “Together,” a collaborative composition between Vesala and renowned Polish trumpeter Tomasz Stańko. This track features a standout performance by guitarist Raoul Björkenheim, whose electric guitar adds a dynamic edge to the piece.

Reception:

The critical reception to “Lumi” has been divided, highlighting the polarizing nature of Vesala’s work. The Penguin Guide to Jazz described the album as an “unqualified masterpiece,” selecting it as part of its Core Collection and awarding it a “Crown” for its special admiration and affection. The Guide praised the album for its sensuous free jazz style and the air of ritual that pervades the compositions.

On the other hand, AllMusic’s review was less enthusiastic, awarding the album 2 stars. This disparity in ratings underscores the subjective nature of music appreciation, particularly in the realm of avant-garde jazz.

“Lumi” is a complex and multifaceted album that defies easy categorization. Edward Vesala’s visionary approach to jazz is evident in every track, from the ethereal beauty of “The Wind” to the playful rhythms of “Fingo.” The ensemble’s performances are masterful, bringing Vesala’s compositions to life with a blend of precision and spontaneity.

Despite the divided critical reception, “Lumi” remains a significant work in the realm of jazz, showcasing Edward Vesala’s unique voice and his ability to create music that is both challenging and deeply moving. For those willing to explore its depths, “Lumi” offers a rewarding and unforgettable listening experience.

References:

1. Cook, R. & Morton, B. (2008). The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings. Penguin Books.
2. “Lumi” album cover art. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lumi_(album).jpg