An immaculate union of the pristine and the passionate – The Real Group in a breathtaking take on ‘Nature Boy’. It’s just a little perfect.
Continue reading...Nordic
279: Ásgeir, ‘Torrent’
A rock star who spends his summers in his home village of 40 old people, in a bleak and remote grey landscape, planting trees during the day and collaborating on songs with his father during the long Icelandic evenings.
Continue reading...033: Radka Toneff, ‘The Moon’s a Harsh Mistress’ (Jimmy Webb)
You’ve never heard of the Norwegian singer Radka Toneff. Trust me, it’s your loss.
Listen to her sing Jim Webb’s ‘The Moon’s a Harsh Mistress’. Tell me you weren’t moved.
278: The Danish String Quartet, ‘Sønderho Bridal Trilogy – Part II’/Dreamers’ Circus, ‘Kitchen Stories’
Some of the most exciting music I’ve heard in years. Oh, do give it a listen.
Continue reading...273: The Necks, ‘Sex’
Jeff’s Top Ten from the last fortnight–surprises, non-surprises, and Rachael Price going ‘Ooh-ooh–ooh’.
Continue reading...294: e.s.t., ‘Dolores in a Shoestand’
Jazz for the 21st Century–the Esbjorn Svensson Trio. So worth the journey.
Continue reading...209: The Real Group: ‘Monica Vals’ (‘Waltz for Debby’)
When they say ‘The voice is the only instrument made by God’, they’re thinking of Margareta Bengston of The Real Group singing Bill Evans’ ‘Waltz for Debby’. Four minutes in heaven.
Continue reading...264: Folk’Avant, ‘9th of August’
For 12 days now I’ve listened to nothing other than this Swedish-Finnish folkmusik trio –a voice, a fiddle and concert kantele. Enchanted cembalo rock. Without rocks.
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