With their fifth album, Norwich-bred Mammal Hands are once again crossing the threshold between contemporary classic, popular, and folk music from around the globe, and jazz. NBHAP author Elana Shapiro met the trio ahead of their tour across Europe to talk about their special chemistry, inspirations, and what a growing mushroom had to do with the genesis of the record.
On the 88th day of the year, Piano Day, LEITER release the second compilation featuring pianists from different musical backgrounds. The record represents the diverse stories and emotions the piano can invoke. With artists like Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, Yann Tiersen, and Meredi, the compilation celebrates the sound of the unique instrument.
In a matter of reviving a classic songwriter spirit, Norwegian folk artist Signe Marie Rustad’s recent record turns a hopeful spirit into artistic courage and a nostalgic feel. For a new edition of our folk column we took the opportunity to chat her up and let her elaborate on the process, going into the tracks of her new record "Particles Of Faith" in detail. Make sure you also head into the playlist, which she co-curated with us for this occasion.
One of the most promising songwriters off the Canadian soil, Andy Shauf returns these days with “Norm”, a meticulously crafted interlay of stories revolving around the central, eponymous figure. NBHAP editor Andreas sat down with the artist to talk about the record, discussing the craft of storytelling as such, and the lack of imagination that characterises present-day folk music.
"Quartets 3+4" is an ode to the beauty of the string quartet. Placed in a contemporary context, Peter Gregson balances electronics with the traditional richness of the quartet. In doing so, he questions how we perceive and compose classical music in the 21st century. Elana Shapiro sits down with Gregson to discuss the Quartets album project, his experience of composing for film and more broadly, the past few years of his career.
The Icelandic-Norwegian duo bring the fun, both for the listener and themselves. Ultraflex's new album "Infinite Wellness" is a adventurous waltz through synth soundscapes, dreams of dancefloors and irrepressible attitude. We caught up with them to find out more.
Kit Sebastian is the creative union of singer Merve Erdem and guitarist Kit Martin. Together, the duo explore their cultural and musical roots and incorporate the rich past of Anatolian music into their psychedelic rock albums. Between past and present, their music as well as visuals are coined by cultural heritage and love for vintage feels.
The Australian singer and songwriter Stella Donnelly follows her acclaimed debut record "Beware of the Dogs" with "Flood". Grown out of the confinement and the new habits the artist picked up during the pandemic, the album is as political as it is personal and as serious as it is fun. Stella sat down to talk to us about new hobbies and perspectives.
