Songstress Anette Norgaard is a breath of fresh air and a welcome
surprise within the music world. Recently releasing her new album, A North Node, Norgaard embraces
Scandinavian roots alongside her knack for writing gorgeous folk laced pop-rock
songs. The combination of these elements is unique to say the least, and
Norgaard certainly pulls them off flawlessly. The ten tracks build a beautiful
record that will have you anticipating every note from start to finish. At
first listen, I was instantly captivated by A
North Node, and my curiosity for what was coming up next, grew with every
song.
Starting off the record is the track titled “Go North,”
which will immediately draw listeners in with a bright yet haunting piano.
Norgaard’s sultry vocals came into the forefront of the song, and are brought
together with a strong male harmony as well as a beautiful violin that helps
paint the picture for the song and lyrics. Following up is “Did They,” which is
a strong piece on the record. Beginning with gently picked guitars, a subtle
electric tone enters and plays alongside Norgaard’s voice and soft ‘ooo’ sounds
that will certainly send shivers down your spine. As her voice grows stronger,
it evokes such emotion as every note she belts out seems to be effortless.
"Saerlig Magi" is up next, which once again
features Norgaard’s stunning vocals in the forefront. Precious strings are
blended with an electric piano, as Anette’s lyrics tell an enchanting story,
taking the listener on a musical journey they will not soon forget. This piece is a tearjeaker for sure.
“Sometimes,” enters with a harmonica sound, and immediately comes to life with
lovely female vocals that harmonize perfectly with Norgaard’s. The combination
of finger snaps and drums work together without flaw, helping to bring this
wonderful song to life. This song quickly became a personal favorite on the
record.
“It’s Actually Worse,” comes into play with a bright and
vibrant piano that is perfect from the very beginning. Shortly into the piece,
Norgaard carries in her brilliant vocals yet again, flooring you time after
time. Her lyrics are both inspirational as well as soothing. It's the perfect
sound for a rainy day. “If You Lay Down Your Heart,” brings a softer aspect
into the record. Subtle strings are laced with Anette’s silky singing, as drums
slightly enter as her voice becomes more boisterous. “Fall,” provides a
different aspect of A North Node,
with more of a soft rock feel in the piece. The lounge sounding piece is brought
to life with intricate drums and lively backing vocals which help pull the song
together. “A Promise,” provides an exquisite vocal performance by Norgaard, as
it is the most heartfelt and tear jerking song on the album. It is impossible
to get through this song without shedding a tear.
“We Walk On,” waltzes in with the same warm piano sound that
carries through most of the record. The song seems like it would translate well
onto any stage, big or small, as it breathes such life. Closing out the record
is "Morgenstund," which is a blissful way to go out. Anette’s voice
gives one last gasp of air which will leave you craving more of her beautiful
lyrics and melody. This proves the only bad thing about this record, is the
fact that it has to come to an end.
Anette’s Norgaard’s A
North Node, is a wonderful collection of songs that will definitely help
put her on the radar of music fans and critics alike. Her special knack for
writing songs and executing them flawlessly proves to be a special gift indeed.
Be sure to keep an ear out for Anette Norgaard. You will be ecstatic that you
did.
Anette Norgaard
A North Node
By Melissa Nastasi
5 out of 5 Stars
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