The second album by the Danish string trio is very much a female album. Not just the musicians themselves, but the subject: Liden Kirsten, who lived in the 12^th century, and is the subject of quite a few ballads and stories that have been passed down through countless generations. A few of those old songs appear here, alongside traditional dance tunes and original pieces.

“Med Ære” is one from the tradition, with Maja Aarøe Freese’s voice soaring over the bed of her five-strong cello and the violins. It’s a beautiful, sweeping beginning that showcases their vocal as well as instrumental strengths.

"Menuet Fra Ærø" (excerpt)

“Menuet Fra Ærø” highlights the detail in the arrangements, and the way they can make three instruments sound as full as an entire string section in a very measured, stately performance of the dance.

"Tweed's Light" (excerpt)

But the entire album is filled with gorgeous melodies, from the heartache of “I Vestervig, which its lovely upward spirals to the breathless lightness that aptly suffuses the closer, “Tweed’s Light.” And when all three members harmonise on “Det Lider Mod Kvælden,” the effect is utterly sublime.

Further listening:
Vesselil's self-titled first album
Dreamers' Circus: Blue White Gold
Iain Fraser: Koterana

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