Helsinki-Cotonou Ensemble
Self-Released, 2021
9/10
Listen to Helsinki Cotonou Ensemble
A 5th album that spans countries, continents and cultures, the Helsinki-Cotonou Ensemble deliver a record that advises us to stay strong during these unusual times, and their inimitable brand of West African Voodoo and Afrobeat is as diverse as ever.
“Min He Mon Égbé - The One Who Sees Today” starts the listen percussively strong, as soulful and smooth vocals from Noel Saizonou and rhythm and melody guide the cultured, dreamy landscape, and “The Craft” follows with Synik’s hip-hop prowess adding much energy to the light brass bouts and Visa Oscar’s keyboard acrobatics.
In the middle, “The Transition” benefits much from Mikko Pettinen’s trumpet and Joakim Berghall’s saxphone in the brief, sublime, jazz influenced instrumental, while “Aya Djidjè Na Minkpo - Happiness for All” places well timed keys amid playful percussion and expressive singing that builds into a punchy and soaring landscape.
Further yet, the snappy, “Hou Heto Alôkpa Homin - The Palm Lines” emits a pop flavor alongside dance friendly nods, and “Do Akon Kpikpan - Stay Strong” exits the listen in piano balladry, where soft, emotive singing builds into a nearly cathartic display of drums, brass and guitars- the latter superbly delivered by one of the founders, Janne Halonen.
An 8 piece who have been at it since 2012, Helsinki-Cotonou Ensemble have released consistently great albums every 2 years, and this self-titled adventure is yet another must hear record for those who enjoy funk, jazz, soul, hip-hop and traditional African ideas meshed into one very inviting formula.
Travels well with: Avishai Cohen- Two Roses; N.O.A.- Afterallogy