For over three decades Taake has balanced tradition and innovation, while the band has retained its uncompromising independence and continually pushed its own creative boundaries. This vision finds a new expression on the ninth full-length album, «En Skog av Nidstang».
After several years of increasing isolation, detached from contemporary trends and largely shielded from the influence of other music, songwriter Hoest's creative drive has only grown stronger. The result is four extensive compositions that flow naturally from the inspired state of mind behind the critically acclaimed album «Et Hav av Avstand» from 2023.
The recordings of «En Skog av Nidstang» were completed south of Bergen, surrounded by the moss-covered forests around the island of Borgøy. In this enchanted landscape, previously immortalised by the ill-fated painter Lars Hertervig, Taake embraced the secluded surroundings. Relying not on modern technology and studio tools, but on intuition, isolation, creativity and a masterful command of the genre's most fundamental tools.
And it sounds unmistakably like Taake. Merciless riffs meet dark melancholy, ice-cold melodies emerge and moments of desolate reflection give way to untamed aggression. The result is an album that honours the enduring power of an unwavering artistic vision, a testament to the fact that Taake, after 33 years, is still just as vital, distinctive and relevant.
Support: Sonisk Blodbad
