Playful emo-rock from Norwegian mountain valleys, Rektor is both making fun of the genre and simultaneously going all the way.
“DIY Norwegian mountain valley emo” might sound like a mouthful, but Rektor’s new album “Før og nå” is charming and playful, and it is both creative and moving (when it wants to be), demonstrating the importance of human agency and intention when making music.
Rektor effortlessly manages to mix humor and serious topics in her lyricism which matches well with her chosen genre inspiration of midwest-emo, both making fun of the genre and simultaneously going all the way.
The instrumentals consist of neat midwest-emo guitar riffs and melodies paired with Rektor’s honest, inviting voice and distinct vocal style. Everything else in the mix is there to heighten and put emphasis on Rektor’s strengths, which is the former mentioned guitar and vocal performances.
“Før og nå” is a simple album, not overdoing it in its production. Rektor has managed to
make a record that positions itself neatly between the Norwegian valleys; distinct from the
rest of Norway’s musical landscape, but still easily accessible.
Stream “Før og nå” LP on Bandcamp and Spotify.
*
