Sylvaine– Eg Er Framand
Sylvaine– Eg Er Framand EP
Season Of Mist
Release Date: 22/03/24
Running Time: 28:12
Review by Oli Gonzalez
8/10
Music. Let’s face it, it’s pretty wonderful (or maybe I’m just a little biassed). There’s countless analogies of how this art medium can transcend cultural and language barriers, uniting millions in the process. We’ve seen examples of that at the annual Eurovision song contest, as well as metal heavyweights Rammstein (let’s face it, we’ve all had a dance and sing to ‘Du Hast’ after a few too many shandies). Driven by American-born Norwegian bred Katherine Shepard, Sylvainne may well be another artist to add to that list. A supremely talented artist able to transcend similar barriers and dazzle listeners globally with their art form. Maybe slightly hyperbolic? Or maybe that illustrates what an impact the upcoming release, “Eg Er Framand,” had on me! See, I had been hooked on Sylvaine ever since laying eyes on the band last autumn and being blown away by the likes of ‘Mono No Aware’ and other blistering blackened Shoegaze tracks! I had been hugely excited to see the band perform at this year’s Fortress Festival, but sadly a withdrawal due to personal reasons meant this won’t happen. Getting to listen to this masterpiece weeks before its release more than made up for that though.
Life’s much like a box of chocolates; you never quite know what you’re going to get. I did wonder if I was going to listen to full band compositions like I alluded to earlier, compositions that feature some of Katherine’s demonic growls and impressive vocal versatility. However, “Eg Er Framand” is a solo release that allows the lights to shine brightly on Katherine’s undeniable vocal talent, and for her creative genius to be unfiltered and unspoiled by a need to yield to other’s artistic vision, which sadly often comes from being in a band. Really though, just check out ‘Arvestykker’, which is largely a 4 minutes and 36 seconds masterclass in acapella, demonstrating what’s possible when an undeniably talented voice is not the prime but rather the sole focus of a song! Even if it’s in her native tongue, you can’t not feel that raw primitive emotion in her voice. It’s beautiful. Hauntingly beautiful. Whilst this is a vocal solo, she’s joined by an equally haunting organ and lire in ‘Dagsens Auga Sloknar Ut’, whereas the brutally simple yet devastating drum strikes in ‘Livets Dans’ add a primal touch that will evoke a response from your ancestors.
Speaking of ancestors, the press release describes the EP as ‘a rich tapestry of Norwegian heritage and tradition’. This is very accurate. To add to that, this seems like an incredibly personal ode to Katherine’s Scandinavian roots, and an invitation for you, the listener, to embark upon such a unique musical journey, led by her. Rather than isolate specific songs, just hit the lights off, get your headphones in, and engross yourself in this near 30 minute expedition. Just like I did…several times.
So, if I enjoyed this so much, why only 8 out of 10? Honestly and objectively speaking, a (mostly) acapella EP sung entirely in Norwegian is going to be a difficult sell for many. But for the few who will look further than this, you’re in for an experience that’s truly like no other out there.
TRACKLISTING:
01. Dagsens Auga Sloknar Ut
02. Arvestykker
03. Eg Veit I Himmelrik Ei Borg
04. Livets Dans
05. Tussmørke
06. Eg Er Framand
LINE-UP:
Kathrine Shepard – everything
LINKS:
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