Inkerin Laulu

Oey was born in Germany to an Indonesian-Chinese father and a Finnish mother from Ingria, now part of Russia. His mother is the cover star of this folk-pop album, which delves into this rich family tapestry, including her flight from Ingria as a war child. Oey sings three versions of the album’s theme, ‘Tytär Inkerinmaan’, its chorus repeating that ‘you’re always a daughter of Ingria / even if you can never return.’ Not returning is a sad reality for Finns of Ingrian and Russian descent, as the border is closed due to tensions between the two countries related to the Ukraine war. Despite this weighty subject matter, Oey’s melodies, lyrics and vocals are light, predictable and forgettable – and the album isn’t saved by a stellar guest list that includes kantele virtuoso Maija Kauhanen and jouhikko lyre master Pekko Käppi. Emmi Kuittinen’s backing vocals far outshine Oey’s on ‘Unelmoidaan’ (Let’s Dream), while accordionist Johanna Juhola lends a lovely wistful air to ‘Kylätie’ (Village Road).