Heart-melting Signe is a vocal ensemble of four female voices and a double bass, who will delight with their presence, strong solo interpretations and original compositions. With their latest Onomatopoeia trilogy, Signe has explored the unexplored terrain of the human voice. The album series evolved from the smallest parts of language, from phonemes (Phonemes 2021) to syllables (Morphemes 2022), words and finally lyrics (Syntax 2023). The syllable-based Morphemes album was built on wordless singing and a rough double bass, and was nominated for Jazz Album of the Year at the Finnish Emma Gala.
Alongside singers Selma Savolainen, Josefiina Vannesluoma and Riikka Keränen, the band features New York-based singer-contrabassist Kaisa Mäensivu. Signe’s compositions incorporate influences from contemporary classical and Nordic music alongside jazz tradition. The ensemble, which has been performing since 2015, has received two Jazz Emma nominations, an honorary mention at the Teosto Prize and representation at Nordic Jazz Comets, among others. In addition to active domestic touring, Signe has performed at jazz festivals in Oslo, London and Germany. “Signe’s doo-wop-influenced ensemble vocals communicate exquisitely with Kaisa Mäensivu’s bass sound” HS.fi 1.8.2023 ★★★★ “The double bass rhythmic tracks move from jazz to art music in a sinuous way, dropping seductive insights along the way.” Ilkka-Pohjalainen 5.9.2022 ★★★★ “Fascinating to hear where Riikka Keränen, Selma Savolainen and Josefiina Vannesluoma end up on this ambitious and poignant human voice journey.” HS 14.12.2021 “Frictionlessly ringing harmonies combine with a lilting use of rhythm.” Yle New Releases