Streif--Nordic Winter

The title tells all: this is the music playing in the humble log shelter in which you’ve taken shelter from the harsh Scandinavian elements. Quiet traditional Scandinavian tunes are coupled with a soft-jazz influence for a very pleasing album that’s modestly touching. The four-man outfit from Scandinavia use a variety of traditional instruments to craft exotic and truly chilling folk music, simulating the frigid gusts of their Nordic homeland. Tracks like "Estlandsk Vuggevise" and "Ballade" are softly gurgling springs of melancholy feeling, mixed with a few jazzy saxophone touches—adding an interesting modern touch to what would otherwise feel quite classical. Great background music for a snazzy party or for a rainy day at home, Streif puts the indie in Scandinavia traditional music…a fact I’m positive you were not aware of before today. Nordic Winter – chilling, melancholy, and even jazzy – is a very interesting listen if you can get your hands on this release. Don’t pass it by.

(Published at MusicEmissions.com)