NORDIC FIDDLERS BLOC
Nordic Fiddlers Bloc
Etnisk Musikklub 98

www.emcd.no
 
 

The fiddle trio might not take in all the Nordic countries, but with members from Norway, Sweden and the Shetland Isles – which was long ago settled by Vikings, even if it is Scottish – they represent a fair cross-section. The connections between the cultures and traditions show in the music, too. They explore the music of the different countries, finding harmony, both literal and metaphorical, in the sounds they make, and go beyond that, to a pair of American tunes (“Midnight On The Water/Bonaparte’s Retreat”) and a Scots tune by Charlie McKerron (“Paella Grande”). What works so well is the interaction and communication between the musicians. What they do is make a joyous, gleeful affair of their music, and that comes right out of the speakers. It’s probably as good a primer on Nordic fiddle music as you’re going to find.

— Chris Nickson