Moskus - Mirakler (2018)

Norwegian trio Moskus bring a quirky, updated variation between jazz and electronics. Anja Lauvdal (piano), Fredrik Luhr Dietrichson (bass) and Hans Hulbækmo (drums) deal in a secular hybrid that sounds like nothing else really. It’s mellow and friendly with just the right amount of weirdness. It’s like the funny uncle of Herbie Hancock and Stereolab one step removed. They incorporate a quasi-trad Scandinavian sound with a trip hop edge. It’s fun without being infused with flaccid lyrics, yet at times it can even sound like a toy laser gun or a car commercial (Irsk setter). Mirakler, their fourth release (all from Hubro), is as feisty and poker-faced as is it’s absurdist coverart depicting a man vs reindeer staring contest.