ELDS MARK

Elds Mark is a side-project by two members of the Norwegian retro-prog outfit Jordsjo - who's latest release 'Nattfiolen' was one of my favorite records of 2019. I recently looked up Jordsjo on facebook where I read about this 'Elds Mark' release. On this fully instrumental release of chamber folk-jazz from the forest you'll hear some very warm symphonic folk with that magic touch of 'Mirage'-era Camel (the quiet parts) and Bo Hansson's 'Sagen am Ringen'. Perhaps a bit of Focus on its more classical music inspired tracks. The sound of the recording is full of that nostalgic warm analogue bliss and the instrumentation evokes many pleasant memories. That clean and slightly distorted guitar tone of Robert Fripp, that organ tone of early Camel, the doubled flutes of Harmonium and an overal pastoral feel that sometimes reminds me of Popul Vuh. Then there is that mysterious 'Norwegian' folk vibe as well. Though all pieces have their main themes and melodies, none of them really progress al that much. In a way this really is Jordsjo without much of the progressive rock element, and that's just fine. Perhaps it's more like a soundtrack than a formal album. I love moody folk music that is predominantly in the minor key, and Elds Marks delivers just that. The watercolor artwork (both front an back of the vinyl sleeve) looks great and the sound quality of the vinyl is strong as well. A great relaxing listening experience or high-end musical wall- paper when at work - I can't fault this fine record by Elds Mark.