Gabba, which translates to «ivory-coated reindeer» in Sámi, is a Sámi band that seamlessly blends traditional yoik with influences from Norwegian folk music, Americana, and other world musics. Their music is a reflection of the Sámi people’s lifestyle, with each song transporting the listener to the vast landscapes of the Arctic region.
The yoik master John André Eira from Mazé, Guovdageaidnu, brings his ancestral legacy and original compositions to Gabba’s music, creating a sound that is both haunting and captivating. The unique and innovative interplay in the band is due to the fact that the musicians live together and play in multiple bands (Svarte Svaner, Tæladylju).
In 2023 Gabba was awarded a Norwegian Grammy Award in the «traditional music» category, cementing their status as one of the leading Sámi bands in the country.
- John André Eira: joik
- Marius T. Hansen: drums
- Espen Bakke: bass
- Christoffer M. Furuheim: guitar, choir
- Ola B. Vårtun: keyboards, choir, producer
Foto: Mads Suhr Pettersen
Gabba (2022)
Drengestua Records OBVLP2201
Ola B. Vårtun
ola@gabbaband.com
gabbaband.com
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