Áššu

Áššu is a musical ensemble that combines traditional Sami Joik with elements of West African grooves and other global influences. The group features Ulla Pirttijärvi, who draws inspiration from her Sami heritage and sings about her relatives and home villages, Utsjoki and Angeli. The ensemble is complemented by Olav Torget and Harald Skullerud, who contribute with string instruments and percussion. Their debut album, "Áššu" (Embers), released in Spring 2019, received critical acclaim, including The German Record Critics’ Award. The album blends atmospheric moods with uptempo grooves, showcasing a unique fusion of Sami and African musical traditions.

Áššu's music has been well-received in the world music scene, particularly for its innovative blend of cultural influences. Their work has appeared on notable charts such as the World Music Chart Europe and the Transglobal World Music Chart, highlighting their impact on the global music landscape.