Dive into the enchanting world of Swedish ballads with Mats Bergström's "Sånger utan ord," a captivating album released in 2001 on the prestigious Naxos label. This 53-minute collection is a testament to Bergström's mastery of minimalism, offering a serene and introspective journey through some of Sweden's most beloved melodies.
The album features 15 meticulously arranged tracks, each a unique blend of guitar and, in some cases, double bass. Bergström's arrangements breathe new life into classic songs like "Snön är kristaller," "Kärleken," and "Ångbåtsblues," while also introducing lesser-known gems such as "Visa från Raukasjö" and "Channa." The inclusion of original compositions like "Melankoli" and "Movin'" further showcases Bergström's versatility and artistic depth.
"Sånger utan ord" is a harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, where the simplicity of the arrangements allows the beauty of the melodies to shine. Whether you're a fan of Swedish music or a connoisseur of minimalist chamber music, this album is sure to resonate with your soul. The collaboration with Jan Ekedahl on guitar and Georg Riedel on double bass adds a rich layer of texture and warmth to the recordings, making this album a standout in Bergström's discography.
2001 Naxos2001 Naxos
Tracks
Snon ar kristalle (arr. for guitar): Snön är kristallerAnonymous, Jan Ekedahl, Mats Bergström
Karleken (arr. for guitar and double bass): KärlekenAnonymous, Monica Dominique, Mats Bergström, Georg Riedel
Sa skimrande var aldrig havet (arr. for guitar): Så skimrande var aldrig havetAnonymous, Evert Taube, Mats Bergström
Angbatsblues (arr. for guitar and double bass): ÅngbåtsbluesCornelis Vreeswijk, Anonymous, Mats Bergström, Georg Riedel
Himlen är oskyldigt blåAnonymous, Ted Gärdestad, Mats Bergström
Folj mig bortat vagen (arr. for guitar and double bass): Följ mig bortåt vägenAnonymous, Povel Ramel, Mats Bergström, Georg Riedel
Visa från RaukasjöMats Bergström, Traditional, Georg Riedel
Mickes låtAnonymous, Georg Jojje Wadenius, Mats Bergström
DagvilseJan Tolf, Mats Bergström, Georg Riedel
HabaneraOlle Adolphson, Mats Bergström
Far Jag Lamna Nagra Blommor (arr. for guitar and double bass): Får jag lämna några blommorAnonymous, Lille Bror Söderlundh, Mats Bergström, Georg Riedel
MelankoliPaula af Malmborg-Ward, Mats Bergström, Georg Riedel
Movin'Mats Bergström
ChannaGeorg Riedel, Mats Bergström
Yaqui (arr. S. Nilsson): YaquiTraditional, Stefan Nilsson, Mats Bergström