Detailed Reviews [Folque - 1981 - "Landet Ditt"]

Prolusion. Norwegian band FOLQUE is among the classic era progressive rock bands from Norway, and they were active between 1973 and 1984 with the folkier aspects of progressive rock as their specialty. "Landet Ditt" is their sixth album, and was released back in 1981.

Analysis. When we entered the 1980's, progressive rock was in decline. Which is possibly why this album by Folque doesn't feel as dynamic or indeed progressive as I had expected it to be. Which doesn't mean that it's a weak album, just that it will be a less interesting experience for progressive rock fans of the kind that focus on the progressive aspects of the music. We are served a fairly wide variety of songs here though, and while some are more focused on being catchy or exploring a more US oriented sound and atmosphere, there are plenty of lively creations here too that manage to blend folk music and rock music in an engaging manner. Mandolin and banjo alongside violins are key instruments in most songs, as lead instruments, supportive instruments and as providers of atmospheric laden textures. The vocals are obviously important too, as vocal tone, pitch and melody have their important roles in emphasizing the folk music aspect when needed. Many of the traditionals as well as the original songs written in old folk music traditions works very well, with the more dynamic 'Gamle Olaves' and the more spirited 'Reinlender fra Aamot' arguably the best of the originals while 'Knut Liten og Sylvelin' is a solid rendition of a traditional here. The latter far away from being as engaging as the version Norwegian band Gaate would explore a decade or so later, but the more dampened and restrained version at hand here works well too. From a personal point of view I'd wish that this album had been recorded with a more expressive drummer though. While the use of synthesizers was somewhat divisive for this album back in the day if I have understood matters correctly, the element I lack for the best songs here to really rise and soar to the occasion are more variation in the rhythm and percussion department. Otherwise this is a solid production in my book.

Conclusion. From my point of view "Landet Ditt" isn't among the must have albums by Folque, neither from a progressive rock point of view nor from a general music fan's point of view. First and foremost because my understanding is that earlier albums were a bit more adventurous. But if a solid, steady album by accomplished musicians exploring the borders between folk music and rock music is of interest, then this album might just be one you will want to investigate.

Progmessor: July 2021
The Rating Room