Grovjobb went down as one of the under-the-radar obscurities of the 90s
Scandinavian retro progressive scene. They were a Swedish band formed in 1995
that existed for only a few years, performing an interesting hybrid of
progressive rock, psychedelia, forest folk, and world music with a definite
throwback to the early 70s. They released three albums during their active
lifespan, that didn’t receive the attention they deserved. Now, Muzic Bazz is
trying to correct this omission by reissuing their first two albums in vinyl
format (they only received the CD treatment back in the day).
Landet Leverpastej
Originally released in 1998 on the small Garageland label, Grovjobb’s
debut is an excellent example of flute driven prog rock, that can be generally
described as a Scandinavian version of early Jethro Tull (“Stand Up” &
“Benefit” era), though entirely instrumental. There's a genuine lot to be
(re)discovered here. Above all, the band succeeded to sound like a mid 70's
progressive band, while avoiding the predominance of the technical factor in
favour of low-tempo instrumental tunes with a heavy psych vibe, often in a
happy, playful mode. When they jam, there’s a notable Fläsket Brinner influence
enrichened by a constant interplay between fuzz-drenched guitar and flute. The
resulting duels are combined with native folk motives and some jazzy moments,
that give a special “warm summer night air” atmosphere to the pieces. Not the
whole album is tightly structured, as Grovjobb wade also through some loose
arrangements with a jamming feeling and a light improvisational touch. In its
whole, “Landet Leverpastej” is a gloriously vintage and magnificently evocative
recording with an “open” aura: the feeling of nature - the sounds of the forest
and the sea. Everyone who is after
well played instrumental music which rests more in a structured jam
session vein, will love this record. The specific reissue comes in a different
cover to the CD, redesigned by artist Dan Fröberg.
Vättarnas Fest
From the wonderful cover (created by
illustrator Hans Arnold) with the parading bodies transformed as music
instruments, one gets the picture that something special goes on with
“Vättarnas Fest”. Following their excellent debut from the year prior, Grovjobb
come with another impressive album, which by many is considered as their “crown
of creation”. The music in this second offering takes a deeper dive in the early
70s in a remarkably convincing result. The jam based approach on the record
takes a more hypnotic, jazzier approach and the flute playing is more fluid
than on the previous album, resulting in a distant krauty vibe. Then comes the
use of sitar and bits of Indian classical music; a fact that adds a spacious
feel to the music and an aura of originality. The listener is transported back
in time, without being (even momentary) let-down through all this well-played,
cohesive, always inspired instrumental delivery. And in true retro spirit, the
high levels of creativity result in an eastern-influenced 19 minute long
instrumental suite, where the raga structured sitar transitions softly into an
electric guitar driven psych journey that near its end dissolves in a sea of
fuzz. Music that good, that never gets old or outdated; a five stars album that
is superb in every respect and a must to every retro psych/prog aficionado.
Listen
here.
200
coloured vinyl € 24.00
Release Date: 20 Nov.
2016
You can get your own copy
HERE.
