Thomas Dybdahl's latest self-titled release brings together a selection of tracks from his previous four albums which have shot him to prominence in his native Norway, providing an introduction to his elegant song-writing.
Opener ‘From Grace’ is a heartfelt promise of love, while ‘Adelaide’ and ‘B A Part’ feel like reassuring conversations with an old friend. ‘All’s Not Lost’ is the reminiscence of wandering off track only to find unexpected hope in another person. Dybdahl is joined on ‘Dice’ by Silje Salmonson, their similarly breathy voices combining perfectly. ‘One Day You’ll Dance For Me New York City’ is introduced with a soulful and evocative saxophone phrase, and despite the seeming provocation of the title, the track is quiet and assured. Only on ‘I need love, baby, love, not trouble’ does Dybdahl move towards a confrontational tone, his voice gaining a harder edge as he vents bitterness and disappointment

Throughout, the instrumentation is deliberate and unobtrusive, allowing the listener to focus on Dybdahl’s intimate vocals. The tone is always sincere, and there is a warmth behind each song which pulls the listener in.

By Ruth Thompson

Rating: 8/10
Format: Album
Label: Last Suppa
www.myspace.com/tdybdahl