Recently named ”one of Americana’s biggest head-turners” by Popmatters, for their 2020 album We Wither, We Bloom, The Northern Belle continue to release music. A more layered, eclectic sound acts as an example of the group's continued musical evolution. 

Self-produced by frontwoman Stine Andreassen and her band, the new songs are products of our time. Personal feelings and ideas have run wild and free. Due to the pandemic, the need for human interaction – cooperation and collaboration – is at the heart of the music. The last year has also been a time for contemplation and retrospection, a chance to revisit old favorites and inspirations. The culmination of this nostalgia is the band’s brand new version of a John Prine classic: “Summer’s End”. Andreassen says of the choice:

– I love John Prine’s humor, his way of seeing the world and his soft touch. It broke my heart when he passed away last year and as a result I started singing his songs more often at home. I’m forever grateful that I got to see him perform at Oslo Konserthus in 2018 – the same night I ran into Phoebe Bridgers in the bathroom and made a fool of myself and talked about allergies and just wanted to be her best friend. 

– I smile when I think back to when I got to visit Oh Boy Records in Nashville. Eileen, who works there, gave me a book of Prine’s lyrics and some stickers for my guitar case – I was screaming inside with joy. Beside the fireplace was a fake white Christmas tree with so many colors and funny ornaments. I especially liked the one with Miley Cyrus on a wrecking ball! John Prine will be a part of my life forever and I wish I had written this song.

The Tromso-via-Oslo septet are led by singer-songwriter Stine Andreassen. A true storyteller inspired by Norwegian folk and country music which results in a hybrid you might call Nordicana. It is a style that has seen them secure support slots with the likes of Courtney Marie Andrews, Sturgill Simpson and Erin Rae.

The Northern Belle - Summer's End (DWYBO Records)

Jeg drømte at Magnus, aka, Cosmic Scorpio sang melodien på denne visa og siden har jeg ikke sett meg tilbake. 

I had a dream and DOOM was rapping on this tune that was written by (in the dream) Magnus, aka. mr Bass aka. Cosmic Scorpio.

MF DOOM - My Favorite Ladies (Magnus i Drømmeland Gunerius version)

After 13 years as a drummer in influential Norwegian indie darlings Razika, the time has finally come for Embla Karidotter to embark on her solo project – moving from behind the drum-kit to center stage. Embracing her life-long affection for country and americana music, she assembled her red-hot backing band The Karidotters and started recording demos. 

Imagine if Lana Del Rey went country, if Patsy Cline traveled to Twin Peaks or if Orville Peck was a woman from Bergen – easy, right? As a songwriter inspired by Dolly Parton, Townes Van Zandt, Charlie Rich and Roy Orbison among others, Embla’s songs didn’t always fit the bill in a band steeped in indie, ska and new wave. But it also might be that musical background that makes her take on americana sound so unique. After joining the house band to sing a few country covers for the “Bergen Bonanza” club night back in 2016, the spark was lit. And when Razika decided to take a break after the release of their 2018 album, Embla started writing songs for real. 

The star-studded Karidotters include Marie Moe (Razika, Slomosa) on bass, Nils Jørgen Nilsen (Honningbarna, The Needs, Sløtface) on drums, Tor-Arne Vikingstad (Sløtface) on guitar and Simen Følstad Nilsen (Aiming for Enrike) on lap steel. Having been in the comfort of a band situation for all of your adult life, it can seem daunting to venture out on your own, but that won’t be an issue surrounded by players like these. Throw celebrated producer Matias Tellez (boy pablo, girl in red, Sondre Lerche, Razika) into the mix, and you’re left with a real strong clique.

Die With Your Boots On Records are thrilled to introduce Embla and the Karidotters to the world, and to present a new addition to the growing Nordicana scene. With songs about heartbreak, drinking, loving and leaving your hometown, they offer a true country vibe, beautiful melodies and twangy attitude, with an outsider vision.

Embla and the Karidotters - Burn the City Down

Die With Your Boots On Records

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