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Havard Volden
Havard Volden: Small Lives
by Scott Gudell
Although the press release claims that Norwegian-born Håvard Volden “takes center stage" with his guitar, Small Lives is carefully constructed around the fusion of his experimental guitar work with synthesizers, bass, drums and more--many of which are performed by Volden himself. This is no surprise, as beyond his guitar prowess, he skillfully leverages the capabilities of a modern studio to craft intricate, improvisational soundscapes. Volden has cited guitarists such as Pat Metheny as key influences. He also draws ...
Continue ReadingMuddersten: Playmates
by Glenn Astarita
The amusing cover art is a take-off on a 16th and 17th century Flanders and Netherlands tradition of still life themes known as vanitas (vanity) paintings that basically portray aspects not deemed important when it comes down to living a fruitful life. Somehow, this experimental Scandinavian trio ties all of these connotations into four distinct tracks, “Private Pleasure 1--4." Akin to life's endless trail of diversions, moods, and routes to happiness, these four pieces are executed with largely ...
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