Multi-instrumentalist Geir Sundstøl is one of the main reasons why Norway’s Husbro label has gained a reputation for leftfield musical excellence.
‘Sakte Film’ builds and expands on his past achievements and adds layers of strings to the mix to broaden the sonic palette.
Sundstøl says that getting guest musicians to contribute violin, viola, and cello was designed to add “More heart and sorrow[in order]to soothe and to shake. Mission accomplished.
The nine-stop musical journey begins with Mats named in honor of fellow musician Mats Eilertsen. This features bass riffs. two drummers, floating-string textures and, perhaps most distinctively, an Indian Banjo (bulbul tarang). The latter instrument translates as "waves of nightingales" and this birdsong effect blends seamlessly with a pedal steel guitar.
The cinematic dimension is unmistakable so it's no surprise to learn that Sundstøl is much in demand for TV and radio productions.
The melodies for Broder and Divan were both created for that purpose.The latter was used as background music for a love scene in the TV series ‘So Long, Marianne’ about Leonard Cohen.
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Snille Spøkelse (Gentle Ghost) is the only track featuring vocals and lyrics, performed by Sanne Rambags and Ivar Orvedal with Hildegun Øiseth on trumpet.
All the songs were created using cut-and-paste techniques but it all flows so effortlessly that you don’t hear the joins.
The moods change subtly.There’s a nice bluesy feel to Maroder Misjonaer (Marauding Missionaries), an exotic sweep to Nabel and a drowsy quality to Nedgangen (The decline).
It matters not whether you label all this as jazz, folk or ambient. The crucial factor is that this is music that transports the listener via a rich variety of soundscapes.
Someone should make a film of it!
Bandcamp link
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