Some of My Friends Are Like Clouds in the Sky

Rauhala and Orpana’s musical collaboration and friendship began as early as 1994. They have played together in bands such as Groovy Eyes, Olmarin Unioni, Rakka, and Jazzmuseo, as well as in various solo projects by both musicians. The duo’s collaboration with Alba Records began in 2004, when Olmarin Unioni released its first album. Since then, they have played together on numerous albums released by Alba.

This time, the musicians wanted to record the music intimately, just the two of them. Rauhala recorded and mixed the album in his home studio. This allowed them to capture a warm, cozy, and natural atmosphere. Everything was played “live to tape,” meaning no multitrack recordings were made. In addition to the double bass and tenor saxophone, the album also features the bass clarinet.

The album opens with Orpana’s “Come Travel With Me,” which was written specifically with this duo album in mind. It forms a duet with the album’s second track, the composition “Like Clouds in the Sky.” Inspired by the duo format, Orpana discovered new compositional approaches, such as asking Rauhala how to play chords on the double bass and incorporating elements of improvisation into his compositions.

The album’s third track, “Some of My Friends Are Bass Players,” is already featured on Orpana’s 2023 solo album Together, but with a completely different arrangement and interpretation. In the original recording, the bass clarinet serves as the bass, whereas here it is the melody and solo instrument.

"Ballad of the Sad Young Men" ended up on the album at Rauhala’s suggestion. He had fallen in love with the song after playing it with singer Liisa Tavi and pianist Arto Piispanen. Translator Kristiina Drews had written delicate and beautiful Finnish lyrics for the song, “Nuoret miehet allapäin,” and Liisa Tavi’s rendition made a deep impression on Rauhala.

"Ballad of Butch & Kid" is a rhythmic, improvisational composition by Rauhala, created specifically for the duo's album. At its core is a repetitive, mantra-like bass pattern.

The album closes with the melancholic "Soldier," a cover of a Neil Young song. Rauhala heard the song on the radio while driving, and its mystical atmosphere left a lasting impression on him.

The new album reflects a long friendship, shared dreams, and a common musical language honed through playing in numerous bands. The music flows delicately, naturally, and instinctively.