Daniel Herskedal “Call for Winter II: Resonance"

Herskedal, known for his innovative approach to the tuba and bass trumpet, has crafted an album that defies easy categorization. Blending elements of classical, world, and improvised music, “Resonance” presents a soundscape that is at once familiar and otherworldly. The album was composed and recorded in isolation, with Herskedal retreating to a remote cabin in the Norwegian mountains near Røros, close to Sami reindeer herding areas. This setting, with its stark and expansive landscape, has clearly influenced the musical outcome, though perhaps not in the way one might expect.

Given the album’s title and the circumstances of its creation, one might anticipate a sound that is dark, cold, and austere. However, Herskedal subverts these expectations, delivering a work that is surprisingly warm, lyrical, and at times even uplifting. This contrast between the perceived and actual mood of the album is one of its most intriguing aspects, challenging listeners to reconsider their preconceptions about what “winter music” should sound like.

The album opens with a track that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. Herskedal makes judicious use of overdubbing and looping techniques, layering his brass instruments to create a rich, multifaceted sonic tapestry. The addition of a subtle beat provides a rhythmic foundation that anchors the more ethereal elements of the composition. This approach is indicative of Herskedal’s willingness to embrace modern production techniques while still maintaining the organic warmth of his acoustic instruments.

Throughout “Resonance,” Herskedal demonstrates an extraordinary ability to coax a wide array of sounds and textures from his tuba and bass trumpet. His control over these instruments is remarkable, allowing him to produce tones that range from deep, resonant drones to delicate, flute-like melodies. This versatility is key to the album’s success, as it allows Herskedal to create a diverse and engaging listening experience using a limited instrumental palette. Many of the pieces on “Resonance” have a distinctly vocal quality, with phrases that seem to breathe and flow in a way that mimics human speech patterns. This approach lends an emotional depth to the music that might otherwise be difficult to achieve with brass instruments alone.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Hope,” which exemplifies Herskedal’s ability to infuse his music with cinematic qualities. The piece carries a deep sense of melancholy, yet there’s an underlying current of optimism that aligns with the album’s overarching theme of resilience in the face of global instability. It’s easy to imagine this track accompanying a poignant scene in a film, such is its evocative power.

The production quality of “Resonance” is excellent, with a clarity and depth that allows the listener to fully appreciate the nuances of Herskedal’s playing. The use of natural reverb, likely enhanced by the cabin’s acoustics, adds to the album’s sense of space and atmosphere. This attention to sonic detail is crucial in a work that relies so heavily on texture and timbre.

It’s worth noting that “Resonance” is not an album that reveals all its secrets on first listen. Like many works of abstract art, it requires patience and an open mind to fully appreciate. This is not background music or easy listening; it demands active engagement from the listener. Those willing to invest the time and attention will find a rich and rewarding experience that continues to unfold with repeated listens.

The album’s abstract nature and lack of traditional song structures may prove challenging for some listeners. There are no catchy hooks or easily memorable melodies here. Instead, Herskedal offers a series of sonic explorations that blur the lines between composition and improvisation. This approach allows for moments of genuine surprise and discovery, but it may also leave some listeners feeling adrift without familiar musical landmarks to guide them.

One of the most impressive aspects of “Resonance” is how Herskedal manages to maintain interest and momentum throughout the album using only two instruments. This speaks to his skill as both a composer and performer, as well as his deep understanding of the sonic possibilities of his chosen instruments. The variety of tones, textures, and moods he achieves is remarkable, especially considering the limited palette at his disposal.

The album’s thematic focus on hope and resilience in the face of global instability gives it a timely relevance. While the music itself is largely abstract, there’s an emotional undercurrent that seems to reflect the complex mix of anxiety and optimism that characterizes our current moment. This adds an extra layer of depth to the listening experience, inviting listeners to project their own experiences and emotions onto the music.

“Call for Winter II: Resonance” sits comfortably at the intersection of several musical traditions. It draws from classical music in its attention to form and texture, from world music in its use of non-Western scales and ornamentation, and from jazz in its emphasis on improvisation and personal expression. This blend of influences results in a sound that is uniquely Herskedal’s own, defying easy categorization. While it’s undoubtedly a challenging listen, it’s not an alienating one. Herskedal’s music invites the listener in, encouraging exploration and contemplation rather than keeping them at arm’s length with harsh dissonance or extreme abstraction.

For listeners familiar with Herskedal’s previous work, “Resonance” represents a logical progression of his artistic vision. It builds on the foundations laid by the first “Call for Winter” album, pushing further into the territory of solo performance and sound exploration. At the same time, it maintains the core elements that have defined Herskedal’s style: a focus on melody, a cinematic sense of atmosphere, and a deep connection to the natural world.

In conclusion, “Call for Winter II: Resonance” is a compelling and thought-provoking album that showcases Daniel Herskedal’s continued growth as a composer and performer. It offers a unique listening experience that challenges preconceptions about what can be achieved with brass instruments in a solo context. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, those willing to engage with its abstract and atmospheric approach will find much to appreciate in its depth, complexity, and emotional resonance. Herskedal has created a work that invites repeated listening, revealing new layers of detail and meaning with each encounter. In doing so, he has further cemented his position as one of the most innovative and interesting voices in contemporary experimental music.

More Information can be found at the Edition Records Website.

Track Listing:
Call For Winter II | 2. Is The Midnight Sun The Same Sun? | 3. Hope | 4. White Mountain | 5. Sunrise Gæjkedh-vearelde | 6. Walking The Clouds | 7. The North Star | 8. My Child | 9. The Tilt Of The Axis | 10. Thawing Permafrost | 11. Ziir

Release Date: 27 September 2024
Format: CD | LP | Streaming
Label: Edition Records

from https://jazzineurope.mfmmedia.nl