We Jazz Records presents the debut album from Oaagaada, a mysterious quartet from the rural town of Hämeenlinna in southern Finland. A group shrouded in secrecy and steeped in organic creativity, Oaagaada is finally ready to share their highly anticipated debut album, Music of Oaagaada, with the world on November 15, 2024. Their sound—often described as “togetherness music”—reaches deep into the roots of acoustic free jazz while forging a distinctive, forward-looking path that echoes the genre’s greatest innovators.
A New Voice in the Finnish Jazz Scene
Oaagaada has long been one of Finland’s best-kept secrets, known for their vibrant, organic sound that effortlessly blends free jazz, spiritual jazz, and acoustic experimentation. Hailing from the peaceful, rural landscape of Hämeenlinna, the quartet’s unique approach to music has caught the attention of local music lovers and fellow musicians alike. However, until now, they have kept their creative output largely to themselves. With Music of Oaagaada, the band is ready to offer a glimpse into their world, and it is one that is rich with improvisational energy, warmth, and a deep connection to the past while embracing the future.
“Togetherness Music” with an Evolving Sound
At the core of Oaagaada’s musical philosophy is a concept of “togetherness music”—a collective sound that embraces the essence of unity in improvisation, drawing inspiration from great acoustic free jazz innovators. Oaagaada’s music is not confined by boundaries or styles. Instead, it moves beyond the conventional, pushing the limits of free jazz and creating something that feels both timeless and new.
The band’s influences are deeply rooted in the spirit of jazz legends like Alice Coltrane, Pharoah Sanders, and other greats of the free jazz and spiritual jazz realms. Yet, Oaagaada creates something completely original. Their music thrives on the collective interplay between its members, each contributing to the creation of expansive soundscapes. Their aesthetic is a blend of rawness and depth that avoids both the sterile precision of contemporary hi-fi jazz and the lo-fi sound of purely experimental recordings. Music of Oaagaada is a true reflection of the band’s live energy, recorded with the same natural, unpolished feel that has made their live performances so captivating.
Track Highlights: A Journey Through Sound
The album opens with the brief yet evocative “Oag-Ada Sweet”—a mere 52 seconds in length but filled with rich tonal textures that set the tone for the rest of the album. It is a prelude to the longer, more complex compositions that follow.
One of the standout features of Music of Oaagaada is the longform four-part composition “Suite Tuli,” which spans the entirety of Side B. The title, which translates to “fire” in Finnish, captures the intensity and heat of the piece, and its sprawling movement sets the stage for Oaagaada’s most ambitious work. The suite builds in energy and emotion, with each part contributing to an overarching narrative that represents a journey through sound and spirit.
Another track worth noting is “Seagull Shapes.” Here, the meditative sounds of the shruti box—a traditional drone instrument—bring a spiritual, almost hypnotic quality to the piece. The track echoes the work of jazz titans like Coltrane and Sanders, but Oaagaada’s interpretation is uniquely their own. The piece is reflective and deep, evoking imagery of the natural world while drawing listeners into a deeper state of contemplation.
A Band Built for Intimacy
While Music of Oaagaada is a remarkable debut, the band’s live shows are equally compelling. Oaagaada thrives in intimate acoustic settings, where their presence and sound can connect directly with their audience. The band has cultivated a deep relationship with their listeners, offering a rare opportunity for them to experience the raw energy and spontaneity of the quartet in a close, personal environment.
To celebrate the album’s release, Oaagaada will perform live at Helsinki’s We Jazz Festival on November 29, 2024, at the cozy Kahvila Sävy. This intimate venue, a central hub for the festival, is the perfect setting for the band’s organic, heartfelt music. It offers an atmosphere that fosters proximity and connection, allowing fans to experience Oaagaada’s music the way it was meant to be heard—up close and personal.
“Music of Oaagaada” – Available on LP and Digital
Oaagaada’s debut album will be available in both LP and digital formats, allowing listeners to enjoy the album in the way that best suits them. We Jazz Records, known for its dedication to high-quality releases in the contemporary jazz scene, is the perfect home for this exciting and innovative group. Music of Oaagaada is set to be a landmark release, bringing fresh, exciting energy to the world of jazz while honoring the traditions that shaped the genre.
Final Thoughts
Music of Oaagaada is an album that captures the spirit of free jazz while exploring new, untrodden paths. With their unique blend of acoustic instrumentation, spiritual vibes, and collaborative improvisation, Oaagaada has created a truly singular work. For those seeking new sounds in the world of jazz, this debut album is a must-listen. The band’s music transcends genre boundaries and offers a powerful reminder of jazz’s ability to evolve, unite, and inspire.
Oaagaada has arrived—and with them, a new chapter in contemporary jazz is about to unfold.
Tracklist:
Oag-Ada Sweet
Suite Tuli (Part 1)
Suite Tuli (Part 2)
Suite Tuli (Part 3)
Suite Tuli (Part 4)
Seagull Shapes
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Label: We Jazz Records
Formats Available: LP / Digital
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