"The sound may be traditional, but the attitude is completely modern, mixing up the ideas of folk, the virtuosity of prog, and the humor of the insane asylum into a cuisinart of acoustic bliss. Visualize whirled music." - Wired
"...a very effective contemporary sounding acoustic tour de force." -- Dirty Linen
Olov Johansson (nyckelharpa) and Roger Tallroth (12-string guitar) of the renowned Swedish acoustic folk ensemble Väsen, return for their 4th concert in The Shedd's Jaqua Concert Hall on tour in support of the group's new CD, Rule of 3 which marks the ensemble's 30th year together. Continuing to push the envelope of traditional music with their unique style. Due to unforeseen circumstances violist Mikael Marin is unable to join them.
The band's origins are deeply rooted in the forests and rich earth of the Swedish countryside, in the centuries-old tradition of the folk music of Uppland. It's a tradition spiced with consummate playing skills. But this is more than just a traditional sound.
There's a playfulness to their music, a joyousness, and a delight in making exciting new arrangements of centuries-old tunes, and new originals inspired by the tradition. Rock, jazz, traditional, and classical influences weave together, making a music that's beautiful but never cloying. You always hear the inspiration and improvisation of the moment. And we can promise that you’ll never know what will happen next.