Nordic Giants are one of those acts that simply cannot be captured in words. Their live performances are as elusive as they are grand and their music shakes you to the core while seeming to contain very little. This duo are also masters of the aesthetic, performing in videos and live acts clad in myriad shamanistic attire. While you don’t have to buy into the fantastical presentation, it definitely adds another layer to their music. Before we go on, head on over the jump to get a taste of exactly what we’re talking about.
As I said, it’s hard to pinpoint the magic of this band. I think that what initially did it for me, and continues to capture my ear to this day, are the exceptional drums and their role in preserving the center of the music. Around them are built the rest of the effects, with the sample being used expertly here as almost another percussive instrument. I can definitely understand when people say this is overwhelming to hear live but I think I’d be too mesmerized to notice. If you like what you’ve heard, you can stream both EP’s in full over here.
There’s really only one label capable of handling this kind of stylized post-rock and that’s Kscope. Luckily for us, the ever on point label has just signed Nordic Giants. Not only that, but they plan to re-release the two previous EP’s as a single LP and even have a debut album slated for 2015! Read the full release below:
KSCOPE is thrilled to announce the signing of multi-instrumentalist duo NORDIC GIANTS.
Nordic Giants have spent the last couple of years bringing their bespoke formula of claustrophobic post-rock cinematic sound to audiences across the UK. They have recently toured with Public Service Broadcasting, God Is An Astronaut & 65daysofstatic, this Summer playing festivals including 2000 Trees, Kendal Calling & Y-Not as well as their own headline shows. They have performed in churches, disused Victorian music halls and converted seaside bandstands to enhance the audience experience of their atmospheric soundscapes.
Seeing Nordic Giants has been described as akin to a religious experience. Multi-screen visuals, powerful strobes and exquisitely timed accompaniment create a whole that appears far greater than the sum of its parts. Each performance is accompanied by award-winning short films which coupled with haunting piano, bowed guitar, climactic drums and array of guest vocalists gives the audience a mind-blowing and visceral experience that goes beyond the normal descriptors.
Ahead of the debut album coming in early 2015 Kscope will be releasing Nordic Giants’ 2014 self-released EPs “Build Seas” & “Dismantle Suns” together on one LP & CD on November 17th.
Color me very, very excited readers! We’ll make sure to have more on this as we near the re-release and the expected debut album! Thanks for tuning in once again to the Post Rock Post and remember: introspection is the path to freedom. Or something.
-EK