Release date: October 6, 2023
Nils Petter Molvaer, the esteemed Norwegian trumpeter, composer, and producer, unveils his latest masterpiece, “Certainty of Tides,” slated for release on October 6th through Modern Recordings. Molvaer, renowned for his audacious forays into diverse musical territories, has remained a stalwart iconoclast since his seminal debut, “Khmer,” in 1997. Seamlessly blending the ethereal tones of Northern Europe with the evocative flavors of Southeast Asia, Molvaer’s sonic odysseys have consistently captivated audiences and critics alike, culminating in the acquisition of four Norwegian Grammys, a testament to his enduring influence and innovation in the realm of contemporary music.
“Certainty of Tides” marks a daring shift in Nils Petter Molvaer’s musical style. Here, his dreamy trumpet blends with the grandeur of a symphonic orchestra. Six of Molvaer’s classic tunes get a fresh makeover by Norwegian arrangers, infusing them with new life.
With the added orchestral flair, Molvaer’s tracks take on a modern vibe, breaking away from classical norms while still keeping their original charm.
With arranger Jan Martin Smørdal at the helm, a symphonic landscape unfolds, evoking the enchantment of a mystical forest. Molvaer’s trumpet dances boldly within this orchestrated realm, weaving seamlessly with the orchestra. The outcome is a mesmerizing interplay of intimacy and grandeur, infusing newfound magic into a beloved piece.
Emerging from the misty horizon with a spine-tingling shiver, the album kicks off with ‘Maja,’ a reimagined version of ‘Little Indian,’ a NP3 trip-hop track from 2002. It bursts to life with the weight of a stirring mountain, then transitions into a flurry of diverse notes, creating a sense of depth and intensity. ‘On Stream’ follows with a pulsating rhythm accompanied by aquatic sounds, followed by a lively dance-like exchange throughout the orchestra. Playful woodwinds and brass instruments engage in a delightful interplay, while deeper tones drive a captivating back-and-forth between leader and ensemble. ‘Simply So’ erupts into a dynamic play of light and shadow before fading away, leaving behind a haunting echo of its brilliance.
Seemingly reenergized by this project, Molvær keeps pushing his artistic boundaries. With a long list of diverse collaborations, he’s known as a bold musician always trying new things. As he keeps sharing his unique sounds with the world, there’s a sense of urgency in his quest for clarity, even if it means heading into the unknown. For Molvær, it’s all about the journey, and this new album is another exciting chapter in his musical story.
