Saturday, April 19, 2014

The Beautiful Melodies Of Kosmoratik Band

By Anita Ortega


The element of layering has been used in different art forms where the same word or image gives different messages. Kosmoratik began as an experiment in Oslo on how the same element can be applied in music. This was the year 2011 when the trio of Lise Lotte, Eivind Johansen and Odd Gunner began working together.

The group released their first album in 2012 which was entitled gravitation. It incorporated symphonic pop and classical rock, a blend that produced sincere and epic melodies. The main instruments in their songs are oboe, string quartet and acoustic guitar. Expert combination of these sounds resulted in a classical symphony that was described by some listeners as delicious. This experiment can be considered successful because it has won them admiration across generations.

Their most anticipated second album was released under the title Bridges and Boats. It is a continuation of the same style but more inventive and fresh. It borrows heavily from the pop style of the 60s and 70s and achieves their aim of communicating or identifying with the feelings of listeners. Pop music in the 60s and 70s was composed by thoughtful writers who took time to know what listeners wanted. The rock was psychedelic beyond showing a lot of intent and depth during composition.

The band uses music to explore interesting and complex themes. The lyrics of their songs enabled them to communicate different messages on the surface and behind those words. The influence of symphonic pop and the rock element makes their songs outstanding. Their rock becomes a blend of traditional and inventive styles. It feels like a classical symphony produced in a rock version.

Eivind Johansen has been with the group since formation and played a crucial role in its success. He is an excellent arranger who expertly combines the wind and string instrument sounds into superb melodies. This gives the music a unique and wide range that continues to win them a larger following with every track. The resulting ballads have an excellent pop feel.

On the keyboard is Gunner Odd who is also excellent on the guitar. He is a multi-talented instrumentalist. He works with Eivind on the arrangements to produce music with a cross-generational appeal, a classical rock and symphonic pop feel. Lise Lotte is able to sway between alternate rock and classical jazz, thanks to her natural and wide vocal range. She achieves these results in a seamless way and her voice continues to get better over time.

The success of the first album has created excitement with their fan base growing from one performance to the other. This has seen them perform on different world stages in sold out concerts. Their major influences are Nick Drake and John Martyn as individual performers. They seek to emulate the success of Beatles with their magical pop.

The lyrical poetry in their performances is influenced by successful poets like Hafez and Rumi. Music by Gravitation is available online for buyers as well as live streaming. Its uniqueness lies in layering which gives words multiple meaning. Their sounds and melodies are an indication of thought and composure with the audience in mind.




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