Väntenätter

This is a welcome second album from a trio formerly known as Eriksson/Myhr/Malmström, three musicians from Norway and Sweden who combine guitar, Hardanger fiddle and bass clarinet (and occasional vocals). Their new name translates as ‘when the wind abates’ and this is a theme which unfolds through the tracks. There are new compositions which draw on the inspiration of both nature and Nordic folk music, such as the dance rhythms in ‘Blixtlynt’ (impulsive), ‘Motvind’ (headwind) or ‘Svirra’ (swirl.) The band has grown during their three years together, creating an inviting, mellow sound as the instruments weave knowingly around each other in rich tapestries and delicate, chamber-like shimmering textures. Produced by one of Norway’s best known Hardanger fiddle players, Erlend Apneseth, (who also guests on the title-track, which translates as ‘Nights of Waiting’), it’s an album of beauty and imagination (try the reflective and wistful ‘Spegling’).