"Ten years on [from his debut, Breathbox] and Paalanen has achieved his vision of giving the accordion a place in a much wider musical world than might be expected from its heritage as a traditional dance instrument. Rujo means 'Barbarous' or 'Coarse' - "unrefined," he says - yet, here, Paalanen's lyricism and beauty are still very much with us: 'Taivas on Sininen ja Valkoinen (The Sky is Blue and White)' is exquisite. What is supremely attractive is the earthiness, the urgency, and the conviction of voice meeting accordion in a compulsive, anthemic production partnership with Samuli Volanto, Lauri Halavaara and Jonas Olsson, and drummer Teemu Vuorela and Piia Kleemola on kantele. 'Hede & Emi (Pollination)' is a pop-emblazoned song about climate change, the fiery growls of Paalanen and his accordion are thrilling and empowering in 'Elä' and on the opening track he beckons "come on, dance for me, baby". Who can resist?".
