Song of the Day - September 25, 2006

It is time for that naked roll in the snow, I mentioned during the last song of the day featuring the Daughters. Imagine a recording using instruments constructed entirely of ice. This was exactly the thought of percussionist Terje Isungset, who has released the album Igloo, in which he fulfills his vision. With the help of vocalist Sidsel Endresen, Terje Isungset has created a sonic world that is extremely fascinating. Recorded in the famous Ice Hotel in Sweden, an arctic architectural tourist magnet for everything at the hotel is made of ice including your bed, the bar, stools, and even your shot glass for vodka, quite literally a very cool place. Terje has custom instruments created out of ice including such creations as the iceofon, ice harp, ice horn, ice trumpet, and ice percussion. Except for the strings on the ice harp and the bass drum pedal, everything else is created entirely out of ice. One might think that the sound might be harsh, but it is an extremely calming, relaxing experience. The album is best listened to in its entirety. However, if you only have time for a quick refreshing listen, I recommend "Mammoth." Click here to listen.