The Northern Belle - “Summer’s End”
Recently named ”one of Americana’s biggest head-turners” by Popmatters, for their 2020 album We Wither, We Bloom, The Northern Belle continue to release music. A more layered, eclectic sound acts as an example of the group's continued musical evolution.
Self-produced by frontwoman Stine Andreassen and her band, the new songs are products of our time. Personal feelings and ideas have run wild and free. Due to the pandemic, the need for human interaction – cooperation and collaboration – is at the heart of the music. The last year has also been a time for contemplation and retrospection, a chance to revisit old favorites and inspirations. The culmination of this nostalgia is the band’s brand new version of a John Prine classic: “Summer’s End”. Andreassen says of the choice:
– I love John Prine’s humor, his way of seeing the world and his soft touch. It broke my heart when he passed away last year and as a result I started singing his songs more often at home. I’m forever grateful that I got to see him perform at Oslo Konserthus in 2018 – the same night I ran into Phoebe Bridgers in the bathroom and made a fool of myself and talked about allergies and just wanted to be her best friend.
– I smile when I think back to when I got to visit Oh Boy Records in Nashville. Eileen, who works there, gave me a book of Prine’s lyrics and some stickers for my guitar case – I was screaming inside with joy. Beside the fireplace was a fake white Christmas tree with so many colors and funny ornaments. I especially liked the one with Miley Cyrus on a wrecking ball! John Prine will be a part of my life forever and I wish I had written this song.
The Tromso-via-Oslo septet are led by singer-songwriter Stine Andreassen. A true storyteller inspired by Norwegian folk and country music which results in a hybrid you might call Nordicana. It is a style that has seen them secure support slots with the likes of Courtney Marie Andrews, Sturgill Simpson and Erin Rae.
INFO
The Northern Belle - “Summer’s End”
Art. no: DWYBOS016
Released: May 21st, 2021
Tracklist:
1. Summer’s End
CREDITS
Lead vocals and electric guitar: Stine Andreassen
Electric guitar and baritone guitar: Bjørnar Ekse Brandseth
Synth: Jean Mikhael Skaaden
Cello: Helga Hommedal Blikås
Written and composed by John Prine
Produced by Stine Andreassen & Bjørnar Ekse Brandseth
Co-produced by Mikhael Paskalev
Mixed by Marcus Forsgren
Mastered by George Tanderø
Cover art: Stine Andreassen
Cover photo: Julia M. Naglestad