Hyperborean

The title of Hyperborean names a Greek mythological race hailing from the far north. Bassist Arild Andersen wrote this large-scale suite in response to a 1995 Norwegian Molde Festival commission. The atmosphere is as cold and desolate as you would imagine—at least on the surface, for an undeniable warmth begins to emerge the more you listen. In addition to an all-star band that includes saxophonist Tore Brunborg and drummer Paolo Vinaccia, it welcomes the Cikada String Quartet into the fold. The latter’s inclusion enhances the sense of space in Andersen’s music with a cinematic overlay. A most unusual classic.