Nicolai Dunger Tranquil Isolation CD

If Soul Rush brought Nicolai Dunger to America's attention (via Lakeshore's domestic release), the Swedish singer/songwriter kicks things up a notch with Tranquil Isolation. This time he actually recorded in the States -- specifically the state of Kentucky -- with such quintessentially American musicians as Will and Paul Oldham of the Palace Brothers. With all the American influences in his music -- jazz, folk, blues, and gospel -- Dunger's decision to record here makes as much sense in theory as in practice (and he's also collaborated with New York psych-rockers Mercury Rev on occasion). If nothing on the album is quite as majestic as string-laden opening track "Last Night I Dreamt of Mississippi" -- and even if Dunger's the kind of scarf-wearing gent who can sing about "mamas" and "lovers" without a lick of irony -- the relaxing spell Tranquil Isolation casts remains unbroken throughout. And Dunger's flexible voice couldn't be more distinctive; whether he's moaning, crooning, or humming, he comes across like a bolder Nick Drake (see "Cello Song") or Astral Weeks-era Van Morrison, which is to say that his record collection must surely have a few British and Irish artists sprinkled in amongst all the Tim Buckley, Miles Davis, and Mississippi John Hurt LPs. ~ Kathleen C. Fennessy

On this record, Sweden's Dunger is backed by Will Oldham (aka Bonnie Prince Billie), Paul Oldham, Pete Townsend, and Jessica Billey. It was recorded in Louisville, KY, and follows on the heels of several European albums and singles. Nicolai's open and vulnerable vocals are filled with a power and driving force that comes with the enjoyment of life. For fans of Bonnie Prince Billie, Ryan Adams, and mellow Beck. 13 Tracks. Overcoat label. 2003.

Recorded at Rove Studios, Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Personnel: Nicolai Dunger (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, harmonica, piano); Will Oldham (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano); Wink (guitar); Jessica Billey (violin).

Audio Mixer: Paul Oldham.

Recording information: Rove Studio, Shelbyville, KY (02/22/2002-02/28/2002).

Photographer: Nicolai Dunger.

Personnel: Nicolai Dunger (vocals, acoustic & electric guitars, harmonica, piano); Will Oldham (vocals, acoustic & electric guitars, piano); Jessica Bailey (violin); Paul Oldham (bass); Peter Townsend (drums).

Producers: Nicolai Dunger, Will Oldham, Paul Oldham.

Spin (3/03, p.118) - 7 out of 10 - "...An unhurried, gorgeous back-road stroll..."
Magnet (4/03, pp.86-7) - "...[A] leisurely stroll through the backwoods..."
Mojo (Publisher) (2/03, p.94) - "...Dunger's songs unfurl with a burnished authenticity....Neck hair-raisingly great..."