Last noted Norwegian jazz drummer Erland Dahlen in 2012 with his Rolling Bomber solo record. Here he be again with Blossom Bells (HUBRO MUSIC HUBROCD2525), where once again a vintage drum kit is at the heart of his efforts – this time some 1930s WFL (i.e. Ludwig) drums. If you’ve ever seen a photo of Ringo’s kit, you might appreciate why drum trainspotters go bonkers for a good Ludwig. Dahlen also plays all manner of non-conventional instruments – the printed inventory of tools and objects on the back is more like something you’d take along for a shopping spree at the hardware store – and adds electronics and drones, sometimes applying percussive techniques using mallets on guitars and other stringed instruments. Net result is surprisingly varied if you were expecting a percussion-only record, and offers plenty of melodic and aurally rich moments, taking us from uplifting and energised runs across the snowy countryside to wistful, moody contemplations of the bleak landscape. A strong combination of abstract, scrapey noise with low-key, restrained melodies; as with many Hubro releases, the plan is to advance us a stage or two beyond the known conventions of instrumental rock or contemporary jazz. Arrived 27 July 2015.
