🇫🇮 Session – Unikuva (1974) Review | Rare Finnish Prog Rock Gem

Released in 1974, Unikuva is the only full-length album by the Finnish band Session. Despite being relatively obscure outside collector and prog rock circles, the album is a cult favorite in Finland’s underground progressive scene. With rich arrangements, subtle psychedelia, and jazz overtones, Unikuva captures a unique moment in Finland’s 1970s musical landscape.

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Historical Context

Session was formed in Kouvola, Finland in the early 1970s. Active for only a few years, the band released two singles and one LP before disbanding in 1975. While their commercial success was limited, their artistic ambition placed them alongside other notable Finnish progressive acts of the era like Wigwam and Tasavallan Presidentti.

Over time, Unikuva became a coveted collector’s item, known for its dreamy textures and genre-blending compositions. The album was reissued on vinyl in 2014 by Shadoks Music, reviving interest in this hidden gem.

Track-by-Track Analysis

1. Unikuva – A dreamy and expansive title track. Built on mellow electric piano, fluid guitar lines, and a strong melodic foundation. The track sets a contemplative mood, ideal for headphone listening.

2. Sunny Blue – A jazzy instrumental that evokes sunny afternoon vibes, featuring electric piano grooves and tight rhythm work.

3. Jäätelöprinsessa – A shorter piece with Finnish lyrics and gentle vocals. Its simplicity contrasts with the experimental nature of other tracks, providing balance.

4. Tahdon olla kanssasi – A love song with folk undertones. The vocals are intimate and minimalistic.

5. Torstin tanssi – A playful instrumental that borders on fusion, with whimsical keyboard leads and rhythmic shifts.

6. Persialaisella torilla – A bold adaptation of Albert Ketèlbey’s “In a Persian Market,” fusing Middle Eastern motifs with progressive flair.

7. Syksy – Evocative of Finnish autumn, this track features melancholic melodies and a rich harmonic palette.

8. Serenadi huomiselle – The closing serenade leaves the listener with a feeling of peace and resolution.

Style and Influences

Unikuva blends progressive rock, jazz fusion, folk, and psychedelic textures. Unlike more complex prog from Western Europe, Session focused on mood, atmosphere, and melodic exploration. Their use of traditional Finnish sensibilities adds a unique local flavor to their sound.

Influences likely include Camel, early Pink Floyd, and Scandinavian jazz-folk traditions.

Band Line-up

Jorma Seppälä – vocals, guitar

Timo Heikkilä – guitar

Hannu Kaikko – bass

Juha Tykkälä – drums, vocals

Osmo Seppälä – keyboards

Legacy and Impact

Although Session never achieved mainstream success, Unikuva gained cult status over the decades. The 2014 vinyl reissue introduced the album to international audiences, especially vinyl collectors and prog historians. The album’s scarcity and sonic richness have made it a prized find.

Today, Unikuva is often included in curated lists of overlooked progressive albums from the 70s, particularly from Scandinavia.

Fun Facts

• The track “Persialaisella torilla” is a progressive reinterpretation of Albert Ketèlbey’s classical piece “In a Persian Market”.
• The band’s name, Session, often causes confusion with other similarly named groups in online searches.

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LP: SESSION - Unikuva NEW SEALED FINNISH PROG PSYCH SHADOKS REISSUE Ltd 500

$54.95

$59.95 incl. delivery

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