Vihma

Released in 1998, Vihma (Finnish for 'Drizzle') represents a pivotal moment in Värttinä's discography where they fully embraced a more aggressive, rock-influenced production style without sacrificing their Karelian heritage. Produced by Richard Horowitz, the album is notable for its sophisticated arrangements and the daring inclusion of the Tuvan throat singing group Albert Kuvezin & Yat-Kha. This collaboration on tracks like 'Uskottu ei uupuvani' and 'Kylän kävijä' expanded the band's sonic palette into darker, more experimental territory. The album features the classic late-90s lineup, characterized by the tight vocal interplay of Susan Aho, Mari Kaasinen, Kirsi Kähkönen, and Sirpa Reiman. Critically, it is often cited as one of their most cohesive works, successfully bridging the gap between the world music charts and art-pop experimentalism. It remains a cornerstone of the Finnish neofolk movement.