"Collage" is a captivating fusion of Nordic folk, experimental composition, and free jazz, brought to life by the Erlend Apneseth Trio in collaboration with the renowned vocalist and composer Maja Ratkje. This innovative album, released on October 20, 2023, via Hubro, is a testament to the evolving relationship between traditional Nordic music and the broader churches of experimental composition and free jazz.
The album features seven tracks, each a unique blend of improvisation and composition, with a duration of 33 minutes. The Erlend Apneseth Trio, known for their high-quality albums and critical acclaim, has once again delivered a remarkable piece of work. The collaboration with Maja Ratkje adds a layer of experimental vocals that enriches the overall sound, making "Collage" a standout in the genre.
The album was born out of an impromptu concert in 2022, which served as the kick-off for a five-day festival. The recorded material from this concert was reworked and reimagined with the help of steady collaborator Jørgen Træen, resulting in a captivating sound that wanders through icy backwaters and winter campfires, with a constant view of a star-flecked sky.
"Collage" features Erlend Apneseth on the hardanger fiddle, Stephan Meidell on acoustic baritone guitar, samples, and modular synthesizer, Øyvind Hegg-Lunde on drums, electronic drums, percussion, and timpani, and Maja Ratkje's imaginative vocals. The album is a blend of improvisations-turned-compositions, with captivating soundscapes that showcase the unique talents of each member.
The album's tracklist includes "Tre vegar," "Fjernklang," "Spor etter spor (mellom oss)," "Kvi søve du," "Ein annan himmel," "Fuglane II," and "Atterklang." Each track offers a unique perspective on the fusion of traditional and experimental music, making "Collage" a compelling listen from start to finish.
