Heikki Sarmanto - Open Ear (LP)

Heikki Sarmanto's "Open Ear," released in 1976 on WM Finland, is a captivating blend of iskelmä and free jazz that defies conventional genre boundaries. This seven-track album, spanning 42 minutes, showcases Sarmanto's innovative approach to music, merging traditional Finnish folk influences with the spontaneity and improvisational spirit of free jazz. The album opens with "Nothing," setting a contemplative tone, and progresses through tracks like "The Land That Is Not" and "New Day," each offering a unique sonic landscape. "Open Ear" itself is a standout, demonstrating Sarmanto's mastery of fusion music. The album concludes with "Rain Hat," leaving listeners with a sense of introspection and musical satisfaction. "Open Ear" is a testament to Sarmanto's versatility and his ability to create music that is both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly experimental.

This LP was released in 1976.