Nest

Nest is a Finnish neofolk and ambient group formed in Riihimäki in 1999 and active since then. The project is centred on Aslak Tolonen, who forms the group and plays kantele, the traditional Finnish instrument that is a prominent part of Nest’s sound.

Style and influences

The music draws on Finnish folklore, with further inspiration from the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien and the Grimm Brothers. It develops from acoustic and ambient ideas, with the kantele used as a key element in the arrangements.

History

Tolonen had previously composed computer-generated metal music before learning kantele during the 1990s. As his work gradually lost its heavier elements, he settles on an acoustic and ambient style, and Nest forms from that shift. The name is chosen to suggest solace, comfort and freedom to experiment.

Releases and appearances

The band’s first demo, Fabled Lore, is released in 2000. Nest also contributes a cover of “The Gallant Crow” to the Skepticism tribute album Entering the Levitation.