Kari Heimen

Kari Heimen performs both traditional and original Northern and Southern Sámi joiks, accompanying herself on the frame drum. A Northern Sámi artist, she has developed a distinctive, modern joik style—an “all-Sámi” expression influenced by various musical genres.

She explores new ways of using the frame drum, incorporating finger techniques from India and the Middle East, creating a groove-driven yet meditative sound. While preserving the essence of joik, she brings a fresh vocal and rhythmic approach—joik, reimagined.

Kari has received the Sámi artist grant and is currently working on her debut solo album, set for release in late 2025.

She is also a drummer, vocalist, joiker, and songwriter in her band HEIMEN, which has released two albums—the latest, a concept album addressing the forced assimilation of the Sámi people.