On the face of it this looks like a jazz album, because it features the classic instrumental combination of piano, double bass and drums, all played by three young Norwegian friends. The reality is a lot different, as this is closer to the sound of down tempo electronica than jazz, and Splashgirl use their instruments wisely and sparingly. The album is atmospheric from the off, and quite dark at times, with the piano taking the lead. The music is mainly slow, and sometimes resembles slowly moving chant (which might explain the album title). ‘Dulcimer’ shows how the subtle electronics can be used to really good effect, while ‘Never Been Anywhere Before’ goes the other way with a pretty punchy approach. Meanwhile ‘Mass’ gets some weird spectral sounds from the bass harmonics, as well as using a viola. It’s the classic ‘less is more’ approach that works so well though, making a thoughtful and surprisingly rewarding listen, as a record to kick back to or to examine more closely.
5 out of 5
Reviewed By Ben Hogwood
