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Modern Nordic folk superduo Maija Kauhanen & Johannes Geworkian Hellman present their first album Migrating. This is musical storytelling where lyrical melodies and driving rhythms from the hurdy-gurdy meet heavy basslines and sparkling riffs from the kantele. With virtuosity and innovation the duo brings their ancient instruments into the 21st century, creating a timeless and unique sound painting. Adding the powerful voice of Maija Kauhanen they tell musical stories with original lyrics as well as wordless singing.

“The theme of the album is inspired by migrating birds – “birds of passage” – who regularly during their lives travel from one place to another. Their sense of navigation is a result of combining their different senses to find the right way. When the time comes to return home, they are somehow able to find the way”, tells Maija about the album.

For us, music and art is a way to describe and portray our observations. When we are playing, we are travelling – trying to combine our senses to find the common direction. The music gives us the possibility to migrate to other places, both imaginary and those from our memories. //
Maija & Johannes

Two of the Nordic countries' most praised and active folk musicians of the new generation join forces: Maija Kauhanen (Finland) and Johannes Geworkian Hellman (Sweden) are each internationally known as artists with strong personal expression and as virtuoso innovators of their respective instruments worldwide.

Maija Kauhanen: kantele, voice, bells

Johannes Geworkian Hellman: hurdy-gurdy, bells

1. kauhanenhellman.com