KORPIKLAANI frontman Jonne Järvelä has announced a new solo album, Harjumaa, scheduled for release on December 18, 2026, under his JONNE project. The Finnish musician has also released the album’s title track, which is now available on major streaming platforms.
Known for his work with Finnish folk metal band KORPIKLAANI, Järvelä continues exploring the musical direction established on his previous solo releases, Jonne (2014) and Kallohonka (2017).
The new album brings together musicians from several established folk and metal acts, incorporating traditional instrumentation alongside acoustic arrangements and influences from Finnish folk music.
“Harjumaa” explores nature, resilience, and renewal
The album’s title track, “Harjumaa,” examines the relationship between people and the natural world, using the imagery of trees and forests to explore perseverance through difficult circumstances.
Järvelä describes the composition as melancholic but ultimately hopeful, emphasizing the importance of remaining grounded during periods of uncertainty.
“Melancholic yet hopeful, Harjumaa explores the power of nature within us. A person can be like a tree, standing strong on deep roots despite all the hardships they may face. As the chorus says, the sun always emerges from behind the grey clouds – and people, too, can find their feet again.”
The song originated from a simple acoustic guitar arrangement, with its lyrical inspiration emerging from Järvelä’s immediate surroundings.
“The song started taking shape on an acoustic guitar. When I was thinking about what to write lyrics about, I looked out of the window and saw a ridge covered with pine trees. So I thought I might as well write about that.”
The composition reflects Järvelä’s approach to songwriting, which often draws inspiration from personal experiences, nature, and individual moments.
Musicians from KORPIKLAANI, WALTARI, and CRUACHAN contribute
For Harjumaa, Järvelä has assembled a group of musicians with backgrounds in Finnish folk, rock, and metal.
Among the contributors is bassist and vocalist Kärtsy Hatakka, best known for his work with WALTARI. KORPIKLAANI accordionist Sami Perttula also participates, alongside violinist John Ryan, a longtime member of Irish folk metal band CRUACHAN who previously appeared on Järvelä’s solo recordings.
The JONNE lineup also includes Jaana Järvelä on vocals and shaman drum, and Yoko Perttula on hurdy-gurdy and tin whistle.
Järvelä himself handles vocals, guitar, mandolin, dobro, bass, percussion, keyboards, and programming.
The album features additional guest appearances from pianist Kasper Mårtenson, whose credits include AMORPHIS, BARREN EARTH, MANNHAI, and TURISAS.
Also contributing is the late guitarist Ben Woods, known for combining flamenco guitar techniques with metal influences.
Other guest musicians include Jesper Anastadiasis on double bass and electric bass, Samuli Mikkonen on drums, Riikka Jaakkola on backing vocals, and Yovan Nagwetch on Indigenous chants and flute.
Helsinki album preview scheduled for December 11
Before the album’s official release, Järvelä will host a public listening event at The Riff in Helsinki, Finland, on December 11, 2026.
The event will feature a complete playback of Harjumaa, giving attendees an opportunity to hear the record one week before its release.
Järvelä will personally host the preview, which begins at 6:00 p.m. Attendance is limited.
The musician is currently touring Canada with KORPIKLAANI and is expected to return to Finland ahead of the listening event.
JONNE lineup
- Jonne Järvelä: Vocals, guitar, mandolin, dobro, bass, percussion, programming, keyboards
- Jaana Järvelä: Vocals, shaman drum
- Yoko Perttula: Hurdy-gurdy, tin whistle
- Sami Perttula: Accordion
- Kärtsy Hatakka: Vocals, bass
- John Ryan: Violin
Harjumaa will be released December 18, 2026. The title track is available now on major streaming platforms.