ALBUM REVIEW: Lustuz Laþu Wōþuz Alu – Nebala
Kicking off an album with a song that is ten and a half minutes long is a very ambitious thing to do. It’s even more ambitious when the album is the debut album of your solo project. However, that is exactly what songwriter/actor – and former HEILUNG singer – Jonas Lorentzen does with his solo project, NEBALA. His debut album is called Lustuz Laþu Wōþuz Alu and comprises nine songs.
The aforementioned opener, Alagabia, definitely makes the most of its runtime. Starting off with eerie synthesisers that last for three minutes before smoothly transitioning into a gentle guitar riff, Lorentzen definitely knows how to keep an audience on their toes. In fact, the singing does not start until the song is almost halfway through. However, when it does start, it is slow and haunting. It is unlike anything that many people will have heard before, with an almost choir-like quality to it.
NEBALA‘s influence for this album is a unique Indo-Nordic sound. Using everything from traditional frame drums, lyre, to tagelharpa, Tibetan singing bowls, and throat singing, this album is something special. Each song is over six minutes long. Yet the songs are all so unique that time seems to slip away. Take the fifth song Laþu, for instance. It is notably one of the shorter songs on the album, with a runtime of just under seven minutes. It mostly consists of a chorus singing together, with drums playing along in the background. However, the song is so well produced and magical that what might otherwise be considered a ‘boring’ song is in fact one of the most interesting pieces you’ll hear all year.
Credit – of course – must go to the other contributors to the album. These include the talents of Sebastian Gainsbourough – a producer and solo artist in his own right – and Kjell Braaten. They really add something special to this album. However, there is no doubt that this is a NEBALA album. Only he could create something so unique and rich in detail.
Nine songs on an album might not sound like a lot, but due to the fact that they are all very long songs, it is clear that quality of quantity is key here. Of course, not everyone will be on board with the sound as it is not easy listening. It is definitely something that requires a unique taste. However, if you are willing to give it a try and can remain open-minded, then you will find something fantastic.
In conclusion, Lustuz Laþu Wōþuz Alu is not just an album, but an experience. It is well-produced, allowing each song to have its moment, but also form part of a collective body of work. The Nordic music works extremely well. Furthermore, NEBALA allows the collaborators to enhance the album. Don’t be mistaken through. They do not take away NEBALA‘s talent. In fact, they only enhance it. This album is unique, and makes sure quality triumphs over quantity. It is a delightful album, and one that everyone should listen to.
Rating: 9/10
Lustuz Laþu Wōþuz Alu is set for release on July 29th via By Norse.
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