Stilla is a Swedish side-project by members of e.g. Bergraven and De Arma. One year ago, they surprised with their Nordvis-debut Till Stilla Falla, and now the band returns with the sophomore full length studio recording Ensamhetens Andar, which means something like ‘spirits of solitude’. This album consists of slightly lengthy tracks that combine tradition with atmosphere. The main tempo is rather slow, and the whole gets almost permanently supported by floating, dreamy keyboard lines. The bass parts are remarkable (you do hear them pretty well; the production, even though not too clinical or polished, causes a quasi-perfect balance in between every single player).
I did not have the intention, initially, to write such a short review, but it seems to be easier, in this case, to stick to the basic essence. Ensamhetens Andar isn’t original, but it comes with surprising ideas (example: the acoustic leads in the title song; you see / hear what I mean?), it comes with a great sound (decent but not narrow-minded), and it comes with such variation in so many aspects: speed, melody, structures, atmosphere, attitude, approach. This said…
Does the outcome be positive, negative or something in between? Well, I am not sure, even after four or five listens in mean time. I think Ensamhetens Andar is a complex album which needs persuasion and open-mindedness. Probably you will adore it, or you will not, or you are not convinced yet about a personal opinion. I am starting to have an idea of what I truly think, but each time I found out there was something that did draw my interest, or that did destroy my enthusiasm. Another four or five listens might clear things up.
Until now: benefit of doubt once again. At least this album does strike, and I do have a positive (though modest) feeling about it. All right???