EMPEROR Frontman, Wife Collaborate With Norwegian Folk Musician

May 25, 2007

Mnemosyne Productions has announced a brand new musical collaboration between EMPEROR frontman Ihsahn, Starofash (a.k.a. Ihsahn's wife Heidi S. Tveitan, a.k.a. Ihriel) and one of Norway's most well known folk musicians, Knut Buen. The project is called HARDINGROCK and the album is titled "Grimen".

According to a press release, "Grimen" presents folk tunes on the Norwegian national instrument, harding fiddle, text and melodies based on Norwegian mythical tradition, arranged and recomposed in modern form with influences from heavy metal and classical inspired electronica. It is said to be an experimental project where folk tunes are thematically broken down and expressed in a new rhythmic and harmonic form with guitars, piano, keyboards, percussion, recitation and song.

"It has been a great experience to work with such a fine musician as Knut Buen," says Tveitan. "The process has been challenging in terms of us having to work within the tonality of Norwegian folk music, and to make non-rhythmic music into 'rock 'n' roll rhythms.'"

"Even though the elements the three of us brought to the table were very contrasting, I think we're all very pleased with how it came together," says Ihsahn. "The material provided to us by Knut is a huge part of Norway's cultural treasure, and I think the album definitely is a worthy development that rocks!"

This album is set for release on June 11 via Nyrenning Forlag, and is distributed by Musikkoperatørene AS.

For more information, including audio samples, go to this location.

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