HAN VALEN is based on the works of Fartein Valen.
Olav Fartein Valen (25 August 1887 – 14 December 1952) was a Norwegian composer, notable for his work in atonal polyphonic music.
Valen first came to my attention via the excellent documentary ‘Heimvegen’, a 12 part series about my friends, Enslaved.
As I was creating the tracks for this album, I would send rough mixes to Grutle Kjellson, who is a distant relation of Valen. Confusingly, Valen was Grutle’s great grandmother’s cousin, his great great great grandfather’s grandson and his great great grandfather’s nephew!
In response to listening to my creations, Grutle would reply with voice memos about the life of Valen. Insightful and complementary to the music, giving a deeper context to the album and life of Valen, I thought it only logical that these voice memos be included. Many thanks to Grutle, who offered so much insight and gave so much time to this project.
Grutle Kjellson: Narration & commentary
Mirjam O. Vikingstad: Front cover photography
The photo taken by Mirjam is from a cholera cemetery in Leirvåg, Valestrand, Norway. The cemetery inspired one Valen’s most famous works “Le Cimetiere Marin” (The Graveyard by the Sea).
HAN VALEN is released in 3 editions –
i. DOWNLOAD
ii. CDR: EDITION OF 25 COPIES
The CDR contains all the download tracks plus an extra track, Utbrudd. This will not be available for download. The professionally pressed CDR is issued in and edition of 50 copies. The disc comes in a 4 panel ‘Lancing Pack’ card sleeve .
iii. CDR + ORANGE LATHE CUT LP: EDITION OF 25 COPIES
The orange lathe cut features ‘Opp Og Ikke Gråte Mixes’, alternative and abridged versions of the download and CDR versions of the album. This version will not be available for download. Package also includes CDR mentioned above.
Lathes cut by Bladud Flies! – bladudflies.com
Related:
10 Questions to Grutle Kjellson
10 Questions to Ivar Bjørnson
Anvår – Collaborative project from Ivar Bjørnson and Andrew Liles
