There has been something of an explosion of neo-folk in recent years, and Grift can perhaps be considered one of the leading proponents, having been plying their trade and carving their niche since 2011. When I say “their”, I should say “his” as Grift is the work of the talented Erik Gärdefors who plays all of the instruments as well as providing the vocals.
The neo-folk label doesn’t tell the whole story however but gives a good starting point to understand what Grift have to offer. The acoustic guitar and percussion are central to the sound with melodica, glockenspiel and analogue synth providing extra layers, all fusing together with clean and gruff vocals. Other sounds such as a hooting owl or bird song or creaking wood have been sampled and integrated in to the tracks adding a further dimension to the sound. The result is sombre and melancholic with a sense of yearning, and perhaps hope, entwined into the songs. There is also a sense of richness to the sound which fits well with the continuing use of Kinnekulle as a source of inspiration, paying homage to the Swedish mountain’s nature, legends and traditions.
Previous Grift releases have included forays into atmospheric black metal and have even included split releases with Saiva and Drudkh. However, ‘Dolt land’ sees Grift concentrate more on atmospheric soundscapes and subtle acoustic melodies, eschewing the bleak atmospheric metal of previous releases. On my first listen I was waiting for those heavier sections to appear and was a little disappointed when they didn’t, but on reflection the album works well and doesn’t actually need those extra elements.
I have played this album numerous times since that first listen and will continue to do so over coming weeks, hearing more each time, and I recommend it to you if you fancy a change from your usual musical battering.
(8/10 Andy Pountney)
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