Erik Flaa – Returning with a New Album After 17 Years
‘Trying to Approach What Is Not Without Making It Something That Is’
After a 17-year break from the music scene, alternative rock and indie artist Erik Flaa is set to release his new album in the fall of 2025. The album was recorded with some of Norway’s top musicians at Atlantis Studio in Stockholm, where ABBA recorded their first hits. The tracks were developed in collaboration with producer and co-composer Georg Buljo, a multiple Spellemannprisen (Norwegian Grammy) winner. Together, Erik and Georg have crafted a cohesive album filled with introspective and atmospheric songs, marking a significant development in Erik's artistic journey.
About Erik Flaa
Erik Flaa is an artist from Oslo, known for his expressive vocals and thoughtful songwriting. After focusing on studies and a career outside music, Erik now returns with renewed passion. His debut album "Still That Bird Is Singing," released in 2008, received strong reviews from several newspapers and showcased his ability to blend genres and create atmospheric soundscapes.
Bergensavisen wrote:
"This debut is so mature, bold, and complete that it surpasses most of Norwegian music in recent years." (6/6)
Inspirations
The album draws inspiration from a wide range of artists and bands, all of whom combine emotional depth with musical experimentation. These include Low, Thom Yorke, Sufjan Stevens, Beck, Wilco, Talk Talk, PJ Harvey, and Nick Cave.
About the Album
The album’s main recordings took place during inspiring sessions at Atlantis Studio in Stockholm. The studio’s unique atmosphere played a significant role in the creative process. Additional recordings and production were carried out at Duippidit Audio Laboratorium in Oslo, where Erik and Georg continued to develop and refine the album’s sound. This combination of environments allowed for both organic live recordings and meticulous crafting of the album's intricate details.
The album explores existential questions and reflections on the human condition. Through poetic lyrics and atmospheric melodies, Erik delves into concepts such as identity, isolation, chance versus destiny, the limitations of rationality, and the search for meaning in a complex world. His music invites listeners on a contemplative journey where atmospheric elements intertwine with introspective storytelling.
The musicians contributing to the album include Helge Harstad on bass, Christian Svensson on drums, and Per Willy Aaserud on trumpet and synth. Tore Brunborg, a recipient of the Buddy Award (Norway’s highest jazz honor), is a guest musician on saxophone.
The album is produced and mixed by Georg Buljo and mastered by Sivert Henriksen.
Fiesta for My Failure
"Fiesta for My Failure" is an alternative rock track that turns failure into a celebration of imperfection. Driven by a hypnotic 9/8 groove and elevated by Tore Brunborg’s expressive saxophone (Buddy Prize winner, known for collaborations with ECM and Pat Metheny), the song blends raw energy with atmospheric depth.
Produced by Georg Buljo, a multiple Norwegian Grammy (Spellemannprisen) winner, it was recorded at the legendary Atlantis Studio in Stockholm. Inspired by Radiohead, Wilco, Beck, and Nick Cave, "Fiesta for My Failure" embraces the beauty of imperfection, unpredictability, and the moments that make us human.
