ett omaka par is set to release on November 29th on stssts records.

Marking a significant creative departure for the eight piece, the record was recorded over two days at the Phillipus & Rimbert Church in Hamburg, with many of the tracks captured during a live performance in front of an audience. 

With one foot in melancholic Scandinavian folk-influenced songwriting, and the other in tension-riddled free improvisation, the ensembles use of angular harmony, spoken word and lamenting vocal melodies, extended instrumental techniques, and intricate musical conversations weaves a story across the record’s seven original pieces. 

The lyrics, written in Swedish, emerged through interviews with each band member regarding the concept of “unequal pairs”; crafting a narrative using recurring musical motifs and patterns as well as subtle references to repeated lyrical themes.

A long-time inspiration for the ensemble, celebrated British organist Kit Downes’ contributions to the record add depth, tension and textural warmth from his inspired Church organ playing. Renowned for his work with the group ‘Enemy’ and his acclaimed ECM Record ‘Obsidian’, Downes’ contribution to the track ‘Slutet’ was particularly noteworthy as it marked the first time he played a solo in time on a church organ – an experience he described as profound.

‘Ett omaka Par’ stands as a testament to the ensemble’s artistic vision, bringing together musical and thematic elements that challenge the listener to engage deeply with its narrative. Whether or not one understands Swedish, the album’s structure and recurring themes offer a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant listening experience.