Released on June 15, 2018, "Rooms & Rituals" is a captivating exploration of sound by Trondheim Voices, a Norwegian ensemble known for their innovative approach to vocal music. Collaborating with Asle Karstad, the album delves into the realms of electronic and jazz, with a strong emphasis on free improvisation. Spanning 46 minutes across 12 tracks, "Rooms & Rituals" is a journey through hauntingly beautiful compositions that engage the mind and encourage exploration of the darker, more evocative recesses of the human experience.
The album begins with "Steamsaw," setting a tone that is both eerie and enchanting, and continues through tracks like "Pulser" and "Ritual #3," each offering a unique sonic landscape. "Berlin Memorial" and "Room #6" showcase the group's ability to create atmospheric, almost cinematic soundscapes, while "Hymn" and "Sardin Cluster" highlight their experimental tendencies. The album concludes with "Below / Ritual #4," leaving the listener with a sense of introspection and wonder.
"Rooms & Rituals" is a testament to Trondheim Voices' skill in manipulating the female voice through electronic means, resulting in a recording that is as strange as it is beautiful. The album is a perfect blend of technology and traditional vocal techniques, making it a standout release in the world of contemporary music. Released under the GRAPPA label, this album is a must-experience for fans of experimental and avant-garde music.
Vinylscout