The first album from Norway multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Anders Buaas to feature vocals -- albeit on only four of its 10 tracks -- is a warm, rich and revitalizing listen bursting with melody and spirit that belies its dark inspiration.
Trollringen is loosely based on and inspired by the novel of the same name written by Norewegian author Sigurd Hoel. According to Goodreads.com (and translated on Buaas's website), the 1958 novel is “a historical saga, murder mystery and domestic tragedy [that was] inspired by Hoel’s discovery in childhood of an executioner’s block used in the beheading of a murderer in 1833. From that image grew the story of a utopian, a young famer named Haavard, whose struggle in his time against religious bigotry, mindless conformity, and political and intellectual stagnation has implications for whatever or whomever can be branded as radical in our own time.” It’s eerily evocative of the era we’re living in now.
The songs with vocals feature two female singers -- Mariam Kjølen on “Prologue” and Tanya Wells on “Best I Can Be,” both lovely songs -- and Tim Condor on the expansive ballad “The Balance of Being One” and the atmospheric rocker “As I Draw My Last Breath.” They add balance to Trollringen but don’t necessarily make it a better record.
On the instrumentals, Buaas's electric guitar fuels many of the songs, most notably on the foot-stomping “Sunrise.” Yet the title track is the most dramatic, featuring Buaas on guitars, bass, keyboards and percussion backed by soprano sax, piano, drums and more percussion. It’s a sweeping piece that spans eight-and-a-half minutes and reveals both tender and furious moments. More than any other on Trollringen, it showcases all newcomers need to know about Buaas and his music.
Man, this is good stuff. And -- fun fact -- Buaas was a touring guitarist for both Iron Maiden original vocalist Paul Di’Anno and one-time Judas Priest frontman Tim “Ripper” Owens.
Track Listing
1. Prologue
2. Opening Credits
3. Best I Can Be
4. Intermission
5. Trollringen
6. Sunrise
7. The Balance of Being One
8. The Last Drop
9. As I Draw My Last Breath
10. End Credits
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