What does Øystein Skar sound like?

Reflective piano drifting in from the Nordic realms.

The review of ‘Stories for A’ by Øystein Skar

Norwegian pianist and composer Øystein Skar found parenthood to be his inspiration for his latest EP ‘Stories for A’. Now with a daughter, he wanted to compose a suite of songs that might be played to her twenty years from now. It opened up questions about whether she’d like it, find it weird, or perhaps Øystein might not be around to hear it with her… Who knows.

That sets the mood for six beautiful, minimalist yet melodic pieces. ‘Flow’ has a mid-European 1940’s modesty to it despite its rich melodies. It has a quiet confidence, and its in-room microphones help sell the intimate mood. ‘Loom’ has a bluesy hip-sway to it, like clothes fluttering on the washing line. It has a domestic warmth to it that glows with inner peace. ‘Norr’, on the other hand, is paired with rain in the background. This piece has Øystein Skar gently rolling trills and letting the long tail reverb of each note ring out like icy tolls.

‘Trace’ is a track that feels tentative, as if it is searching for something or scared to take a leap. The first half of the piece feels stuck on a couple of piano keys, but as the track progresses, levity arrives as the song breaks free of its ponderous opening. ‘Veil’ is possibly the most reflective piece on the release. Øystein Skar leaves intentional pauses after different phrases, and the motifs he plays often lead to a curious end as they move up the octaves. The title of the track translates to never quite unveiling the full picture of the music. That leads us to the closer, ‘Amsterdam’. The rain returns along with distant city noise as a hollowed low note piano synth echo creates a bass drone for Øystein’s piano to tumble around. ‘Amsterdam’ is sonically the most interesting track because there are moments of distant strings juxtaposed with up-close piano clunks and felt noises. It sounds like Skar’s created an audio cocoon from the bustling world outside.

Creating an audio cocoon is a great description of this gentle classical piano release. It feels like a warm, hot chocolate of an EP. Whilst there are plenty of moments of reflection and unresolved thoughts dotted across the tracks, the overwhelming feeling of care and tenderness is what shines through. Øystein Skar’s deft hand at subtle ambient effects adds character and depth, too. A fine release.

Recommended track: Amsterdam

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