Check out these two new releases from Norwegian music publisher Etnisk Musikklubb.
The first is the gypsy-flavored Sigg-Sigg from the band Bengalo. Anne Fossen’s lead vocals are forceful and at times reminiscent of a torch singer in a 1940’s nightclub. The accordion and violin seem to duel, whirling and skipping through the album. Most of the tracks are fast-paced (“Briu De La Craiova” sounds like it’s on fast-forward–or speed), but there are a few slower ones (“Sol” is the best of these). The most fun track is “Bubamara,” which starts slow and gathers speed, like a stone racing to the bottom of a hill.
The second release, Hardingfele from Hardanger fiddler Gro Marie Svidal, feels like the perfect album for fall. The crispness of the fiddle on each of the nineteen short tracks calls to mind the bright chill of an autumn day and should get you right in the mood for apple picking and pie baking. Svidal covers traditional Norwegian folk songs here, but adds her personal touches for a bit more contemporary sound. She is alone on most tracks (a viola accompanies occasionally), creating a spare, but warm feel to the album.