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Trond Kallevåg
Trond Kallevåg is one of Norway’s most distinctive guitarists and composers, known for his lyrical touch and cinematic soundscapes that bridge Norwegian and American musical traditions. His music explores themes of belonging, memory, and migration — blending folk heritage with modern ambient and jazz sensibilities.
After his acclaimed debut See Me Another Day (2017), Kallevåg gained international attention with Bedehus & Hawaii(2019), named by Bandcamp as one of the 15 best international jazz albums of the year. His warm Fender tones and melodic storytelling have drawn comparisons to Ry Cooder, Daniel Lanois, and Bill Frisell.
With Fengselsfugl (2021), Kallevåg explored themes of confinement and faith, inspired by his work as a music teacher in Oslo Prison. The follow-up, Amerikabåten (2023), wove together Norwegian and American folk traditions, reflecting on the migration stories that shaped both cultures.
His latest album, Minnesota (Hubro, 2025), continues this transatlantic journey with a more dreamlike and introspective sound. Inspired by historical letters, old photographs, and the shared dreamscapes of Norway and the American Midwest, Kallevåg — together with Gard Nilssen, Mats Eilertsen, and Tuva Halse — creates a musical world that feels both timeless and deeply cinematic.
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Trond Kallevåg, Dave McMurray, Bill Laurance, John O'Gallagher & More
by Ludovico Granvassu
Whether born in the heart of Detroit, captured in the stillness of a London church at night, or inspired by cinematic visions of Norwegian immigration to Minnesota, the music in this playlist invites you into sound worlds that captivate and reward at every turn.Happy listening!Playlist Ben Allison Mondo Jazz Theme (feat. Ted Nash & Pyeng Threadgill)" 0:00 Dave McMurray The Jungaleers" I LOVE LIFE even when I'm hurting (Blue Note) 0:16 Host talks 5:45 Don Was ...
Continue Reading"Kallevåg has created one of the most gorgeous recordings to hit the shelves this year!»
- Bandcamp (15 best international jazzalbums of 2019)
«Locates Trond Kallevag Hansen at the right height on the heels of Ry Cooder and Bill Frisell.»
- Jazzaround
It’s all as affecting as anything Trond Kallevåg has ever recorded, and only leaves me wanting more.
-Gary Whitehouse
(A Green Man Review)

