Fryd

SVER describe themselves as ‘Norwegian folk music with relentless energy and seductive spark!’ It's the kind of phrase that usually makes me wary, as it often means something overproduced, which gets in the way of the music. Not so here. SVER is blessed with the starriest of line-ups: Swedish fiddler Anders Hall brings his huge and wide-ranging experience, there's the mischievous percussion of Jens Linell, sweet-sounding guitar from Adam Johansson, Leif Ingvar Ranøien's elegant and witty accordion playing, and, last but not least, Olav Luksengård Mjelva – a deserved celebrity of the Hardanger fiddle, renowned for a virtuosity deeply rooted in tradition.

There's tremendous variety on offer. ‘Falsk Vals’ (False Waltz) is indeed energetic, clever and great fun, ‘Total Carnage’ is SVER's tribute to the Shetland Folk Festival, while the touching melody of ‘Sova’ (Sleep) reveals the band's gentler side. SVER has an enviable reputation for being one of the best live bands on the circuit and this CD has captured plenty of their irresistible spirit.