New Day
Apollon, 2021
9/10
Here’s where it all started for Norway’s Flying Norwegians, their debut album from 1974 that planted them firmly on the map of country rock that paralleled The Eagles or the Flying Burrito Brothers. Now available for the first time digitally, there’s also CD and LP versions, and they’re remastered from the original tapes.
“Young Man” gave us our first taste of Flying Norwegians, and it’s a thumping and groovy rocker that’s full of vocal harmonies, punchy drumming and a timeless ‘70s spirit, and “Time’s Drawing Circles” follows with a calmer demeanor of poetic singing and meticulous guitar work that resonates much warmth.
Further down the line, the title track embraces a pretty Americana template that’s delivered with a heartfelt approach, while “Behind The Worlds” uses piano strategically in the melodic soft rock landscape. “Spanish Tragedy” then leads with an accordion as a rootsy flavor develops with an energy you could and should dance to.
Deeper still, the meticulous “Human Need” sounds right at home in the ‘70s with its precise organ and bouncy bass lines, and “It Ain’t Just Another Blow” exits the listen with a quick execution of frisky country rock and soaring vocal harmonies.
It’s pretty apparent from listening to this debut that Flying Norwegians would become legends in the area of country rock not only in their home country but worldwide. New Day remains an influential record to this day, and it’s certainly worth revisiting via this improved version, and a must if you need to acquaint yourself with this seminal outfit.
Travels well with: Flying Norwegians- Wounded Bird; Aadal- Silver