Issued in a 4-panel glossy digisleeve with a 14-page booklet.
The ?Bente? given to Lillebj?rn by Tinn Municipality, Telemark, as Solprisen, The Sun Prize.
Recorded live at Telemarkfestivalen, 11.-14. August 1994
? ? 2020 Grappa Musikkforlag AS
"Live in Telemark" on CD captures an intimate and finely crafted concert by Lillebjørn Nilsen and Andy Irvine, two legendary figures of Scandinavian and Irish folk music. Recorded in front of an attentive audience, the album showcases a warm, acoustic sound built around guitar, bouzouki, mandolin and voice, with songs that move between reflective ballads, finely spun storytelling pieces and lively dance tunes. The interplay between the two musicians is organic and subtle: arrangements remain uncluttered, giving space to nuanced vocals, delicate fingerpicking and the characteristic rhythmic drive of Irish and Nordic folk traditions. The atmosphere of the recording is deliberately close and natural, preserving the spontaneity of a shared evening on stage in Telemark and inviting the listener to experience the concert as if seated in the front row.
The repertoire on this CD focuses on songcraft, narrative depth and melodic richness rather than studio polish. Quiet, contemplative moments alternate with more up-tempo pieces, creating a flowing arc that feels like a complete concert rather than a compilation of isolated tracks. The live character is a central part of the listening experience: small interactions with the audience, subtle dynamic changes and the breathing of the instruments contribute to an authentic document of two masters at work. "Live in Telemark" is thus ideal for listeners who appreciate acoustic folk music that is rooted in tradition but carried by strong personalities and a clear artistic voice.
Lillebjørn Nilsen is one of Norway's most respected singer-songwriters, known for his role in shaping modern Norwegian folk and for a long career in which his songs have become part of the country's cultural memory. Andy Irvine has been a central figure in Irish folk for decades, admired for his work with influential groups and for his distinctive approach to song interpretation and instrumental accompaniment. Their collaboration brings together two rich musical worlds and a wealth of stage experience, which is clearly audible in the maturity and ease of this performance.
The CD is released by Heilo, a Norwegian label recognized for its focus on high-quality folk, traditional and acoustic music. Heilo is known for carefully curated productions that highlight regional musical heritage and give established as well as exceptional artists a fitting framework for their work. With "Live in Telemark", the label once again underlines its commitment to authentic sound, detailed recording quality and respectful presentation of artists who stand for living musical traditions.
Folk
20.270
- Folk In General 11.498- France 2.805- Greece 89- Ireland 539- Italy 4.029- North America 248- Russia 121- Scandinavia 182- Scotland 26- Sinti Music 32- Spain/Portugal 530- Turkey 24- Yiddish/Klezmer 147
