New EP from Filip Dahl

Over the years, Norwegian multi-instrumentalist and composer Filip Dahl has earned a reputation as a revered artist able to apply his talents to a range of different genres. With a legacy that dates back to the 70s, Dahl’s journey began as the lead guitarist in various rock bands that lit up Norway’s music scene. His talent for crafting intricate guitar riffs and commanding stage presence soon led him into the world of music production, where he co-founded the iconic Brygga Studio in Trondheim.

Throughout the 80s and 90s, he was at the forefront of Norway’s musical innovation, both as a musician and as an engineer, shaping the sound of countless records. However, at the turn of the millennium, his path took an unexpected turn and after a reflective break from the industry, he re-emerged in 2016, not as a band member or a producer, but as a solo artist.

His return was marked by the release of Black Angels & White Demons, a fourteen-track debut album that showcased his skill as a composer and musician, blending his years of experience with a renewed sense of artistic freedom. Since then, Dahl has been on a prolific streak, consistently releasing singles, EPs and albums that have continued to impress a global audience.

Filip Dahl’s latest release, the five-track EP Tales by the Singing Guitars, is the latest showcase of his enduring passion for music and his deep connection with his instrument of choice, the guitar. As the title suggests, this EP is a collection of instrumental tracks that places the guitar front and centre, allowing it to take on the role of a storyteller with each piece composed to let the guitar sing its own melodies, conveying emotions and musical feel without the need for lyrics.

Opened by “Flight of the Unicorn,” the laid back taps of drums and bright instrumental tones underpin Filip’s stunning lead guitar work. As the notes dance above the arrangement, he casts a mesmeric listening experience before the energy of the track jumps into a full charge of driving drums and dazzling solo performance to form a spectacular sound of instrumental rock music.

Title track “Tales by the Singing Guitars” sets a lively scene with uptempo drums carrying the uplifting sound of the intricate lead melodies. Crafting a truly charming sound that’s sure to put a smile on your face, Filip’s licks soar above the energising sound to reach dizzy heights of virtuoso runs and flickers.

“Elevated to a Higher Ground” slows things down with an elegant sound of lilting rhythm and delicate clean notes which alternative with the superb distorted leads. “Turning Darkness into Light” shakes with grooving rhythm and catchy melodic hooks to deliver an epic sound that’s sure to stay with you long after hearing the track.

Closing the EP with “Dreaming,” the mellow patter of drums and pulse of bass guitar is topped by graceful leads before flowing through a cinematic soundscape of blissful instrumental guitar music. From start to finish the EP serves up a sensational experience of Filip Dahl’s stellar abilities as a composer and incredible talent as a performer.

Listen to Tales by the Singing Guitars below