Sylvaine has grown into a guiding light for ambient post-metal, but new EP ‘Eg Er Framand’ traces back to Kathrine Shepard’s earliest influences.
The Norwegian artist grew up amidst the contrasts between nature and urbanity, on the outskirts of downtown Oslo. While studying music, dance and drama in high school, she performed several times at the Kampen Church.

This 19th century relic is where Sylvaine recorded most of ‘Eg Er Framand’. The special sound of this room underline the EP’s music, which includes interpretations of traditional Norwegian folk songs, along with three of Kathrine’s own original songs to the cannon.
 
To this day, “Dagsens Augo Sloknar” still has mysterious origins, but the lyrics were written in 1891 by Elias Blix, a professor-turned-politician who also wrote hymns. Staying true to the original’s delicate, reverent melody, Sylvaine sings in a breathy, elongated whisper that’s haunting and soothing, like a shadow. But while it opens with just a steady hum of organ, her rendition ends by pulling you into a trance.
 
‘Eg Er Framand’ is a stark but soothing passion project from one of metal’s most commanding voices.