Four years after their previous studio effort, Valkyrien Allstars is finally back
with their new record slutte og byne (stop and begin) via Heilo on October
16th. For the past year, the critically acclaimed Norwegian Grammy Award nominated
band Valkyrien Allstars have isolated themselves in their practice space. This has
resulted in the sixth studio album from the group, and as front figure Tuva Syvertsen
says:
– None of these songs suck.
On slutte og byne the band has let themselves be irritated about their own lives, and
has drawn inspiration from the idiots they are with. This has been turned into pop
music with lasting nods to traditional Norwegian music, which was also the
foundation for their debut album back in 2007. Up till now we have heard this in
magnificent singles like the title track, «midtstripa» («the mid stripe») and «alt går an
å la vær» («anything that doesn’t need to be done»). They are among a total nine
brand new tracks that explores the themes mentioned above beautifully.
Ever since Valkyrien Allstars released their self titled debut record – an album that
quickly went gold – they’ve continually explored and challenged themselves to use of
traditional instruments and Norwegian folk music within a contemporary expression.
The band has been unusually active throughout 13 years with their highly
memorable live shows where they over the years have evolved into an act that
flawlessly and playfully performs unique concerts every time they’re on stage.
The past year they’ve gotten extra attention, as Tuva Syvertsen was one of the
featured artists on one of the biggest musical tv shows in Norway, «Hver gang vi
møtes» («Every time we meet») on TV2, being considered one of the very top
performers this season.
Valkyrien Allstars is a band that is ever changing. What started as a Hardanger fiddle
trio, has become something that’s actually hard to describe. You just have to
experience it.
