SCANDINAVIAN YULETIDE VOICES
by Mika Pohjola with Rigmor Gustafsson, Theo Bleckmann, Eeppi Ursin

Here is a holiday album that offers an alternative to more traditional holiday recordings. In the hands of Finnish-born, then New York-based jazz pianist and arranger Mika Pohjola, the familiar becomes fresh, and the obscure becomes essential.
With vocal performances by Rigmor Gustafsson, Theo Bleckmann, Eeppi Ursin, Sanni Orasmaa, Lisa Werlinder, Kristin Mulders, and others, this is a collection that offers new interpretations of holiday repertoire. Pohjola's arrangements combine Scandinavian traditions with influences from Ireland, Germany and American Christmas music. His Scandinavian heritage serves as the album’s backbone—but with detours through Ireland, Germany, and classic American holiday fare, this offering becomes something of a global celebration of winter spirit.
The album opens with an Irish reel: “Wexford Carol”, sung by Sanni Orasmaa, setting the stage for a journey that crosses borders and traditions with grace. Pohjola’s orchestra, which could be characterized as crisp and luminous, supports the eclectic vocal cast with precision and detailed craftmanship, infusing each piece with its own distinct mood—from joy and wonder, something which could be seen as typical for the holiday season overall.
There are no fewer than four selections from the Alfred Burt Carols. These rare gems—composed by the American minister’s son whose work has grown into cult status—are lovingly reimagined here, revealing just how timeless and moving these modest but profound compositions truly are.
Yet Pohjola doesn't shy away from the well-known. A quietly jazzy 5/4 time signature “Little Drummer Boy” and a restrained and simplified “White Christmas” with a worn-out piano, provide gentle anchor points, familiar enough to draw listeners in, yet presented with such fresh nuance that they feel reborn.
Scandinavian Yuletide Voices combines Scandinavian Christmas traditions with jazz, chamber music and international holiday repertoire. The album balances familiar classics with lesser-known works, including four Alfred Burt Carols, in newly arranged performances and an international cast of vocalists.

This is a newly remastered edition of the original album from 2025, featuring improved balance, enhanced clarity, and a more refined dynamic range. The remaster stays true to the spirit of the original while offering a cleaner, updated sound.

Recommended for both new listeners and longtime fans who want to experience the album in its best possible form.

For those who prefer the original sound, the CD edition remains available and features the original 2004 master.

http://christmascarols.bluemusicgroup.com