Hege Høisæter – Himmelskygge

With Himmelskygge, Norwegian mezzo-soprano Hege Høisæter delivers an album that is as intellectually engaging as it is emotionally moving. Released through LAWO Classics, this ambitious collection brings together classical song, contemporary composition, jazz influences, and electronic soundscapes, resulting in a recording that pushes the boundaries of what modern vocal music can be.

At the heart of the album is Høisæter’s expressive and nuanced vocal performance. Her rich mezzo-soprano voice navigates each composition with remarkable sensitivity, effortlessly shifting between intimate lyricism and dramatic intensity. Rather than simply interpreting contemporary works, she becomes an integral part of their emotional architecture, allowing each composer’s distinct musical language to flourish. One of the album’s defining moments is The Drift, a compelling song cycle by composer and electronic musician Kari Telstad Sundet, inspired by the poetry of Emily Dickinson. The fusion of acoustic instrumentation, electronics, and evocative vocal writing creates an immersive listening experience that feels both modern and timeless. Sundet’s electronic textures never overwhelm the music; instead, they deepen its emotional resonance and expand its sonic landscape.

Olav Anton Thommessen’s Cosima minnes opens the programme with dramatic flair, while the songs of Carl Gustav Sparre Olsen celebrate the beauty of Norwegian poetry through elegant, expressive settings. Jazz ensemble Tov a Vot contributes fresh energy with the thought-provoking Two Dystopian Songs, seamlessly blending contemporary jazz sensibilities with art song traditions. The album closes beautifully with Gisle Kverndokk’s luminous Ave Verum, offering a peaceful and reflective conclusion. What makes Himmelskygge particularly impressive is its commitment to artistic collaboration. Pianist Jorunn Marie Bratlie, electronic composer Kari Telstad Sundet, and the members of Tov a Vot all play essential roles in shaping the album’s unique identity. Together, they create a recording that feels cohesive despite its stylistic diversity. Far from being a conventional classical vocal album, Himmelskygge is an exploration of contemporary Norwegian artistry at its finest. It challenges expectations while remaining deeply accessible through its emotional honesty, inventive arrangements, and exceptional musicianship. It is an album that rewards careful listening and reveals new details with every return.