DESCRIPTION
Olli Ahvenlahti is a renowned Finnish pianist, composer, and conductor, born in Helsinki in 1949. A key figure in the Finnish jazz scene since the 1970s, Ahvenlahti has recorded with numerous ensembles, including the UMO Jazz Orchestra (1977–1982), and later served as Finland’s conductor in the Eurovision Song Contest, leading seven national entries between 1990 and 1998. Since the '90s, he has worked extensively as a composer and arranger for Finnish broadcaster YLE.
The Poet, originally released on Love Records in 1976, is now a rare and highly collectible album. The standout track, ‘Grandma's Rocking Chair’, gained cult status in the early '90s London acid jazz scene due to its infectious percussion and tempo, becoming a staple in DJ sets and compilations. It was later reworked by Kenny Dope and released on the Finnish label Jazzpuu in 2001.
This Mr Bongo reissue faithfully recreates the original package, featuring improved heavyweight card sleeves and high-quality vinyl pressings, complete with original label designs and artwork. A gem of Nordic jazz-funk, The Poet is as rich in musicality as it is in history.
TRACKLIST
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The Poet
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Sunday's Stuff
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Aura
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Sambatown (Rock Ridge)
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A Day At The Zoo
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Grandma's Rocking Chair