Áššu – bio
Ulla Pirttijärvi-Länsman – Joik
Kenneth Ekornes – Percussion
Olav Torget – Baritone guitar / N’Goni
Áššu, is a higly vibrant trio known for their music inspired by traditional joiks of the Northern Sami style. Ulla Pirttijärvi, a renowned figure in the Sami music scene, has made her mark in Finland, Sweden, and Norway. Kenneth Ekornes and Olav Torget have established themselves as seasoned and innovative musicians in the jazz and world music scene, collaborating with artists like Mari Boine, Solo Cissokho, Karl Seglem, Kristin Asbjørnsen, Hildegunn Øiseth, Jon Balke, and more.
Áššu, meaning “Embers,” is performing traditional joiks and original compositions by Ulla Pirttijärvi-Länsman arranged in the group. Olav has extensive experience in West Africa, while Kenneth has his musical education from Brazil. This geographical axis forms the cornerstone of Áššu’s musical direction, encompassing everything from primal rhythms to ambient soundscapes. Ulla resides in Northern Finland, near the Norwegian border, and Kenneth and Olav are based in Oslo, Norway.
In 2019, Áššu’s debut album ‘Áššu’ garnered considerable acclaim in the international world music community. It was awarded the quarterly best world music album by ‘Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik’ and was listed in the top ten of ‘Songlines’ ‘The most important Sámi albums’. Additionally, one of their songs was featured on British Airways’ in-flight playlists, a notable accomplishment.
Their latest album “Louhteniegut” released 21 february 2025, has already made it to the number 4 on Worldmusic charts Europe and recieved lots of good reviews.
Albums:
Louhteniegut:
https://open.spotify.com/album/3ILnC41Xdf53jsApuTwxVT?si=H0ubScqbSSSqmHQyGTPMSA