How often do childhood and adolescent interests determine one’s future and the purpose of their entire life? I believe this question is answered in the story of the songwriter, pianist, and electronic music producer Sandra Kolstad. Her story is filled with cool twists, changes, but ultimately leads her back to her roots. Her first step in music began with classical piano, with its doctrines, dimensions, and techniques. The world of classical music is strict and unequivocal, like sculpting, everything must be as it is on the sheet. However, through this experience, Sandra Kolstad found freedom in electronic music, while also striving to alter the classical piano sound.

photo by Ida Bjørvik

The exploratory journey into understanding duality – both in the world and within the soul – began with such contrasting shades of sound. This path inspired the creation of the new album “SOFT HARD,” made possible through collaboration with Yngve Sætre, Hanne Hukkelberg, the Danish pop artist Asbjørn Terkelsen, and Erlend Mokkelbost.

Sandra Kolstad returned from the world of electronic club music to the realm of classical piano sound, but with a desire to create a new sound that would unite her two passions. The album title emphasizes duality, and listening to Sandra Kolstad’s new release is a heartfelt experience. In the first track, “Unlearning,” Sandra Kolstad immediately unveils a new sound where classical piano blends with electronics, creating genuine intimacy and a personal sound. Then, following the call of music, the track “Wind” becomes a kind of sensuality within the album. Soft and tender shifts of instruments, enveloped in a synth cloud of keys, suggest the possibility of understanding the world from entirely different perspectives. Through dynamically changing soundscapes, Sandra Kolstad aims to underscore that in the world, opposites always coexist in harmony with each other. This is reflected in both the rhythmic pulse and the diversity of tracks on the “SOFT HARD” album.

The track “Soft” exudes the lightness of piano sound, with Sandra Kolstad’s impeccable vocals maintaining their natural tone. However, in the next song, “Calling,” beginning in the spirit of classical minor compositions and ballads, it evolves into an electronic epic, with numerous voices and choirs. This innovative approach makes this track my favorite on the album. Incredibly sensual, it evokes a sense of something entirely new and stylish in the soul.

photo by Ida Bjørvik

I love how in the track “Nothing,” the subtle analog crackle is preserved, while the vocals float above gentle keys, blending with a neon electro sound. I must admit, this is a very strong part of the album, where Sandra Kolstad’s unique sound and worldview are fully revealed. The album concludes with the track “Hard,” where the piano keys are intentionally processed, yet they remain light and soft, preserving their sound. Listening to the track, you’ll hear an incredibly personal and intimate performance, capturing all the surrounding sounds, the fluttering of fingers on the keys, the pedals, and Sandra Kolstad managed to maintain that “pure” piano sound with its deep echo. Well, this is indeed a stunning album!

Sandra Kolstad has done incredible work in her album, combining the coolness and freedom of electronic sound with the warm and steady sound of classical piano, while still delivering genuinely commercial tracks in “SOFT HARD.” With authenticity, poignant sound, and light experimentation with sound, each track on this album is a true revelation. It not only envelops you in melodic shifts but also possesses that commercial spark ready to ignite at the top of the charts. I also like how Sandra Kolstad plays with contrasts, as even in her promotional photos, the white piano symbolizes almost antique classical music, while the singer herself, adorned with a semi-transparent shawl, appears to be from the modern world of electronic music. It’s truly incredible!

The temptation to delve into this musical world is irresistible. Each song is like a gem in the crown, complementing each other and enhancing the overall atmosphere of the album. This album is like haute couture in the world of music: strange, unusual, and yet utterly captivating. Like a fashion trend, this album cannot be ignored. It mesmerizes with its melodiousness, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that’s impossible to tear away from. “SOFT HARD” is a true gem for those who appreciate unconventional sounds and crave something new in their playlist!

*This review was made possible by SubmitHub