Hedvig Mollesstad Weejuns sees the Norwegian guitarist form a new trio with Ståle Storløkken (keys) and Ole Mofjell (drums) to take a differing flight path on an already lauded career.
In a step away from tighter compositions, Mollestad is afforded the time to find the essence of each melody, and explore a freer approach, where dissonance and controlled noise are key. When clusters of acidic fire hit they’re not forced, but possess all the fullness of a myriad of jazz and rock influences. For instance, closing track, Pity the City, takes a captivating riff for a six minute walk before Mollestad lets rip with neck wrenching force.
Storløkken on keys has space to flex some virtuosic muscle: is that the ghost of Jimmy Smith on Go at Your Peril? Along with the rubbery percussion of Mofjell, they make for a commanding trio.
It may take a few listens to only begin to comprehend the scope of this double live album – four of the tracks come from their first gig together – nevertheless, as you know, that’s all part of the reward.
