Alexander Pettersen has become a household name here in Norway from his work with his own band The South and especially his work with Ida Jenshus. After some years as a hired hand for different artists and bands he has finally released his first solo album. The Letter is an ambitious and exploring record. And well, it's very good.
Lyrically it can be a tough listen. This is an album about heartbreak and loss and it gets pretty dark at times. There is a feel of light at the end of the tunnel though, much because of the beautiful melodies you can find in all of the songs.
It's quite a bit of sonic exploring on the album. Drums in the distant, cascades of synths and layer upon layer with guitars. It fits the feel like a glove. Where Pettersens music with The South has been fairly grounded in the Grateful Dead, Little Feat and Allman Brothers-sound, The Letter has more in common with the later albums of Nick Cave and the more dark and vibe-y stuff from bands like Echo & The Bunnymen and Talk Talk.
A tough but pleasant surprise. An album that creeps under your skin.
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