Sylvaine – Eg Er Framand

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I rarely enjoy reviewing EPs, as I almost always feel it’s a counterproductive job. However, listening to this new release by Sylvaine, I decided to open an exception.

“Eg Er Framand” adopts a different approach to her other albums, bringing an introspective and deep connection with her Norwegian folk roots. Kathrine Shepard’s work is strongly grounded in ethereal, neoclassical music, with elements of Nordic tradition.

Recorded at Kampen Church in Oslo, this album is a result of Shepard’s talent in creating a vast and intimate soundscape. There’s a touch of Dead Can Dance, a dash of Anna von Hausswolff and a ghostly, eerie edge to the ambient music.

“Dagsens Auga Sloknar Ut” (The day’s eyes are fading, in free translation) has a monophonic melody on an organ, an almost deep and long drone, along a voice full of life. “Arvestykker” (Relics) is just vocals, with the insertion of other voices in a harmonic and gloomy way, with doubling effects and a sensation of a peaceful and sentimental journey. “Eg Veit I Himmelrik Ei Borg” (I know a castle in the kingdom of heaven) is a traditional song, rooted in a Christian religious hymn which takes its melody from the Hallingdal folk song. In this version, the religious tone is kept, with instruments in the background supporting the voice.

“Livets Dans” (The Dance of Life) brings back organ as a supporting instrument, in a song with a dense, monotonous melody, with a brief percussion giving an epic flavour in some parts and layers of voice. “Tussmørke” (The Twilight) is slightly different from the other tracks and sounds more like Sylvaine’s previous works, with a piano based melody and vocals used for backing melodies. The album ends with “Eg Er Framand” (I am a foreigner), the title track just in voice, as if it were a cycle coming to an end for another to start.

Shepard’s talent for incorporating traditional elements in a convincing way creates a world of sound all of its own, with a drastic change from the post-black metal/post-rock sound of her previous work. She brings lightness, novelty and great things to the ears of anyone who isn’t a metal fan and would like to get to know Sylvaine’s music.

My only point is that it’s perhaps a bit repetitive at times. It’s a big break from the idea of an EP dedicated to traditional, minimalist songs, which some fans may not be able to assimilate straight away. But just give it a chance, it’s a really nice album that shows a lot of passion, not just for music, but also for making something that touches souls and hearts.