Mollmaskin: Heartbreak In ((Stereo))

Mollmaskin is the latest creation from Norwegian musician Anders Bjermeland. Heartbreak In ((Stereo)) is the album and a very nice one it is.

Bjermeland is a member of the psychedelic band Flashback Caruso which I have not had the pleasure of hearing. On his new project Bjermeland handles most of the instrumentation including; drums, piano, guitar, saxophone, flute, organ, Rhodes,, bass, clarinet, synth, percussion and vocals. Rhys Marsh (Kaukasus) and Magnus Muldal add pedal steel and accordion respectively on a couple of tracks.

The music has a nostalgic feel, including touches of Canterbury, art rock, jazz and folk, shrouded in a haze of melancholy that is so typical of Scandinavian progressive rock. Bjermeland is a fine musician and his voice has a wonderfully soothing melancholic tone, very expressive and clear, giving these tunes an added depth of clarity.

The disc is packaged as two CDs labeled 'left side' and 'right side' with each CD containing twenty plus minutes of music, a direct reference to the glory days of vinyl.

The 'left side' is a little more upbeat and less melancholic with tunes like the jazzy art rock of "The Long Shadow" and the breezy acoustics of "Jennifer", a catchy tune with lovely lead and backing vocals.

The 'right side' disc is more moody and reflective but no less intriguing. The slow build and beautifully orchestrated "Dirty Linen" and the more intense "Before We Go To War", with its dense musical layers of atmosphere and subtle organ touches are album highlights.

If you are familiar with Scandinavian prog like Kaukasus and Rhys Marsh, Mollmaskin should certainly be on your list. Another very enjoyable listen from northern Europe.

Track Listing:
Left Side
1. The Same Ash
2. The Long Shadow
3. Jennifer
4. Never Able
5. How Many Ants
6. Two Moods
Right Side
1. Halvtom Sjel
2. Dirty Linen
3. Nightmare City Suite
4. The Death Of Lennon
5. Before We Go To War

Added: April 25th 2015
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Label's Official Site
Hits: 1650
Language: english

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