Lumsk, the Norwegian progressive folk band, is back in the music business after a 16-year hiatus with their highly anticipated album “Fremmede Toner”. Mari Klingen on vocals and Roar Grindheim on guitar are the only two major line-up changes. The other members, Siv Lena Laugtug Sæther (violin), Eystein Garberg (guitar), Espen Warankov Godø (keyboards), Espen Hammer (bass) and Vidar Berg (drums), are the same as those who participated on the previous album “Det Vilde Kor” in 2007. Despite the fact that they began recording their 4th studio album in 2009, they just finished it in 2022, due to life considerations. I guess it’s never too late to wrap up any unfinished business. Author & editor Mathias R. Samuelsen makes a guest appearance on “The Day is Done” and “A Match”.
The band’s prog folk music is embellished with several metal, atmospheric, symphonic prog and pop-rock elements. Mari’s voice is ethereal and perfectly complements the band’s music. The production, is clear, rich and dynamic. The album was mixed by Rhys Marsh (Mater Thallium) at Autumnsongs Recordings and mastered by Arnstein Fossvik at AudioMaster.
The album takes its inspiration from a collection of poems by the renowned Norwegian author André Bjerke, as well as translations of famous poets such as Nietzsche, Goethe, and Swinburne. Lumsk’s idea to write music for the Norwegian versions of these poems and then mirror them with the original versions is an ambitious attempt that pays off wonderfully. The songs on “Fremmede Toner” may not be identical to the poems, but they capture the essence and emotion of the original works in a unique and engaging way.
The album delves into a wide spectrum of themes and emotions, from the melancholic and introspective “Dagen Er Endt” to the joyful and energetic “Fiolen”. Lumsk demonstrates their diversity and ability to evoke different moods throughout the record, taking the listener on a captivating journey.
Even though the majority of the songs are atmospheric and mellow, there are moments when listeners are able to experience the lyrical nature of their music in its entirety. Personally, I prefer more the longer tracks, such as “Dagen Er Endt”, “Das Tode Kind”, and “The Day is Done”, but there is plenty of different stuff to revel in.
Finally, “Fremmede Toner” is a remarkable achievement for Lumsk. The album crosses genre boundaries with its beautiful melodies, strong musicianship, and compelling lyrics. The band’s long-awaited return was undeniably worthwhile, and “Fremmede Toner” is probably their most accomplished and captivating work to date.
