- artist:Markku Lepistö
- featured artist:Riccardo Tesi, Eva Parmenter, Leija Lautamaja, Xabi Aburruzaga
- release year:2024
- style(s):Instrumental, Scandinavian
- country:Finland
- formats:CD (Compact Disc)
- record posted by:Musiikkituotanto Markku Lepistö Tmi
- label:Rapusaari Records
- publisher:Rapusaari Records
- buy this record
Acclaimed Finnish accordionist Markku Lepistö is thrilled to announce the release of his latest album, Markku Lepistö DUOS, on November 15, 2024, under his own label, Rapusaari Records. This ambitious two-year project brings together eight unique tracks, recorded as duets with four of Europe’s top diatonic accordionists, each bringing their own rich cultural heritage and distinct style.
In Markku Lepistö DUOS, Lepistö explores a musical journey that transcends borders and traditions. Collaborating with notable diatonic accordionists Riccardo Tesi (Italy), Leija Lautamaja (Finland), Xabi Aburruzaga (Euskadi), and Eva Parmenter (Portugal), Lepistö presents two original compositions with each artist. Every duet captures the vibrant musical exchange between two musicians from different backgrounds, each bringing a fresh interpretation to the album.
Each recording took place in the unique environment of the artists’ homelands:
• In Pistoia, Italy at home of Riccardo Tesi,
• In Nokia, Finland with Leija Lautamaja,
• In Zamudio, Basque Country at Xabi Aburruzaga's studio, and
• In Lisbon, Portugal with Eva Parmenter.
“This album has been a great adventure in creating music across different cultural landscapes,” Lepistö reflects. “Each of these artists brought something personal and distinctive to their tracks, making each duet a unique fusion of our styles and influences.”
Markku Lepistö (b. 1963 ) is a renowned Finnish accordionist celebrated for his innovative compositions and mastery of the diatonic accordion. With a deep respect for both tradition and experimentation, Lepistö has collaborated with leading musicians worldwide and continues to expand the horizons of contemporary folk music. He has graduated 2016 from the Sibelius Academy Doctorate program. During his career he has been part of many well known folk music groups such as Värttinä, Doina Klezmer and the european accordion quartet Samurai Accordion without forgetting the duos with the organ player Mikko Helenius, a bass player Pekka Lehti and a mandolin and quitar player Petri Hakala.
Markku Lepistö DUOS will be available on all major streaming platforms and at select music retailers from November 15. The album promises to delight fans of world music, accordion enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates cross-cultural collaboration and the unifying power of music.