Legendary Norwegian fiddler Ånon Egeland takes the listener on a poetic and intimate journey through time today, with the release of his latest solo record, "Ånon Egeland MXXIV." A dazzling patchwork of tradition and innovation, this 16-track set is a reimagination of the living legacy of folk music in Southern Norway, drawing deeply from a lineage of teachers, tunes, and memory.
Written, performed, and arranged entirely by Egeland, MXXIV is a collection of tracks and interludes that utilize an arresting palette of instruments, including not only the resonant Hardanger fiddle and its acoustic fiddle sibling, but also the earthy jaw harp and the touching willow flute. Every track feels like a gossamer string linking the past to the present. These rarely recorded tunes are transposed anew by Egeland's poignant voice. The album runs just north of 30 minutes, 30:21, to be precise, but every one of those notes is played with emotional clarity and cultural depth.
Co-produced by Tellef Kvifte, with mastering by Tor Magne Hallibakken, the record sparkles with a presence and authenticity, placing an emphasis on the exactitude of Egeland's playing while retaining the rustic, soulful core of each tune.
Among the 16 tracks, two are particularly stirring gems, "Stevtone" and "Halling etter Olaf Frøysaa." "Stevtone" features glittering, swooping fiddle lines that run elemental and freshly sprung morning light slanting across fjords. Meanwhile, "Halling etter Olaf Frøysaa" sparkles with frolicsome energy, paying homage to traditional dance rhythms while extolling Egeland's deft, interpretive grace.