Steinar Raknes and Unni Wilhelmsen are two of Norway’s most distinctive artists – together, they form a powerhouse of presence, energy and musicianship. This is Americana with a Norwegian soul: raw, warm and full of life.
Raknes plays only double bass, but makes it sound like an entire band. Using fingerstyle playing, effects and looping, he creates everything from understated soundscapes to driving grooves, while Wilhelmsen’s voice weaves around, above and through the sound with playfulness and precision. Their interplay is intuitive, fun and unpredictable – a free-flowing display of musical brilliance.
The repertoire features Raknes’ own songs from the Stillhouse series – Chasing the Real Things, On the Road, Due and Drone and TID – alongside carefully selected interpretations of songs by artists including Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Depeche Mode. What they have in common is honesty, musicianship and stories that connect.
Stillhouse Duo is known as one of Norway’s finest live acts, with a rare ability to connect with audiences – genuine, spontaneous and filled with infectious joy in performing.
Steinar Raknes
Bassist, vocalist and songwriter with a distinctive combination of double bass, voice and electronics. He has released several critically acclaimed albums, toured around the world and performed with artists including Chick Corea, Mickey Raphael and Tord Gustavsen. Raknes is known for his commanding stage presence, virtuosic and innovative bass playing, expressive vocals and ability to create expansive soundscapes using electronics – a uncompromising musician with deep roots in both jazz and Americana.
Unni Wilhelmsen
Singer, guitarist and songwriter whose distinctive voice and gift for connecting with audiences have made her one of Norway’s best-loved artists. She broke through in 1996 with the song Won’t Go Near You Again and has since released several award-winning albums, toured extensively throughout Norway and collaborated with numerous Norwegian musicians. On stage, she is warm, witty and engaging – a performer who makes everything she sings feel genuine.
