Norwegian import Hanne Hukkelberg is sure to astound folk and indie music enthusiasts alike with her upcoming sophomore full-length, Rykestrasse 68. Equipped with a daring experimental repertoire not widely implemented, Hukkelberg vividly demonstrates a range of musical prowess through a variety of instruments and vocal incantations. A deft composer and masterful lyricist, Hukkelberg guides the listener along a glazed surface of poignant songs, occasionally surprising one with ironic bursts of ferocity. Delving into the rich sources of her environs, she creates willful masterpieces which simultaneously conjure reality and idealism.
In “Berlin,” one of two highlighted tracks, Hukkelberg displays her remarkable ability to capture life within words. Subtly, yet decisively, she draws out a narrative set on the streets of Berlin. In the second track, and with an undeniable similarity to Billie Holiday, she plays upon this distinction in fan-favorite, “A Cheater’s Armoury”. Moving through the lyrics with an eye toward aesthetics, she pulses along delicate harmonies, retelling the age-old dilemma of living with liars.
Each track on the album stands on its own as a poetic force to be reckoned with. So it’s no surprise that with the flow that comes from each track lined up together, Rykestrasse 68 will stand out as one of the best folk/indie albums of 2008.
