There is a quiet strength in Marthe Halvorsen’s music. A kind of unshaking focus on serenity. Don’t look for big dramatic gestures, or a build-up to an explosive release on the next chorus. You will find, however, a warm and inviting intimacy, which comes through thanks to a sincerity that is reminiscent of Martha Wainwright and a simplicity of melodies that evokes Newfoundland’s Amelia Curran. Others mention Iceland’s Emiliana Torrini. The voice, accompanied by a simple guitar but also delicately coloured with other instruments, conveys a fragility that seems on the verge of fracturing at any moment. Yet, it never happens. And that’s when we understand that behind this impression lies the strength I was talking to you about.
Marthe Halvorsen is originally from northern Norway, a place, like Abitibi or the Gaspésie in Quebec, that is immersed in huge natural landscapes that ironically invite a lot of introspection and self-scrutiny. For many years now she has been living in Montreal, a ‘’World-city’’ and a large multicultural metropolis. In addition to developing her artistic career here, she also works as a companion for palliative care patients.
These two seemingly opposing worlds are fused through the kind but assertive personality of Marthe Halvorsen, who charts her own course without regard for the overwhelming noise of contemporary news. In truth, her music is the antithesis, even the antidote. The lady has neither the style nor the temperament to stir up social media with an exuberant presence, which is all the better, because what she offers is infinitely more necessary. So there’s a good chance you’ll pass her by without really noticing her, especially if you’re glued to the usual media streams. But, if you’re reading this comment, you’ve already chosen another path and, in that case, Marthe Halvorsen’s music is definitely for you.
Don’t miss this meeting.
