When Silje Nergaard toured for the first time flanked only by two guitarists, many a concertgoer was irritated at the announcement of such a formation, but that has turned into pure admiration at such musicality and incredible drive. These two top-notch guitarists, along with their frontwoman, have become a trademark in their own right, making one not wish for a larger formation at all.
Silje Nergaard was arguably the first of the many Norwegian singers to follow, and became a figurehead of modern Scandinavian pop jazz in this country. Her debut was given a considerable boost by Pat Metheny's involvement, and today - 15 record releases later - she is one of the greats of her genre. A wonderful songwriter and singer, she is equally at home with gently sparkling ballads and the great numbers of the American Songbook. Homegrown lullabies are just as much her home as rock and pop hits. What she brings to the stage together with her two guitarists Havar Bendiksen and Hallgrim Bratberg is a splendid mixture of jazz, funk, pop, velvety ballads, Scandinavian folklore, vocal artistry and dexterity, presented with lots of fun and joy of playing.
About Silje Nergaard
Silje Nergaard's voice has a gentle, girlishly innocent sound. She effortlessly overcomes the distance from deep, dark tones to crystal clear, pure highs. In her concerts she masterfully knows how to captivate the audience and yet always draw attention to her fellow musicians.
The solos of Pat Metheny or Tord Gustavsen are legendary and also on many of her CDs one senses the artist's openness and her interest in the creativity of other musicians. Silje Nergaard moves light-footedly between jazz, folk and rock - from each genre she takes what she needs to bring her melodies to life - but last but not least it is the musical freedom that jazz grants, her high professionalism and charm that make her concerts a sensation.
