Pekko Käppi

Pekko Käppi (b. 1976) is both a master of the ancient, archaic folk instrument jouhikko (bowed lyre) and a bold innovator in folk music. His rock-infused bowed lyre and powerful vocals captivate audiences, whether performing solo, with his own band, or increasingly with various other creative ensembles. Käppi delves into ancient folk music traditions not only as an ethnomusicologist and doctoral researcher specialising in traditional folk singing, but also as a creative and prolific artist, composer, and performer. 

The most distinctive feature of Käppi's musicianship is his primary instrument, the bowed lyre, whose musical potential has traditionally been seen as limited, but which he has expanded into ever more boundless territories. Though known for its muted sound, in Käppi's electronic form the bowed lyre fits seamlessly – even at music festivals. During live performances in particular, he often launches into a hypnotic rock expression. His song lyrics vividly merge the mythical worlds of folk poetry with dystopian visions of the future. 

Käppi's discography began in 2001 and is highly diverse in expression. In his more subdued, traditional, minimalist solo singing and playing, his velvety soft voice and style are mesmerising. At its most intense, the primal force of his Karelian shamanism transforms into Finnish voodoo, and the folk expression veers towards earthy blues or psychedelia. 

Central to Käppi's discography are his five solo albums and five albums with his ensemble Pekko Käppi & K:H:H:L. His second solo album Vuonna '86 (Year '86, 2010) was named Finland's Folk Album of the Year, and K:H:H:L's debut Sanguis Meus, Mama! (2015) was nominated for both the Teosto Prize and the Phonofile Nordic Music Prize. 

Pekko Käppi & K:H:H:L have performed extensively worldwide, including at major world music festivals such as WOMAD, WOMEX, Eurosonic, and Folkelarm. The ensemble's albums have also charted on various international world music rankings.