The new Norwegian progressive rock group, Swifan Eolh & the Mudra Choir, is premiering the very first single release from their already acclaimed debut album, being the title track, “The Key”, December 22th.
It comes with a video, a collaboration with the Norwegian award winning video artist Ulf Kristiansen, which is loosely based on the picture, “The golden key”, by Hawk Alfredson, adorning the cover of the debut album. The album was released January 18th , 2019.


Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4GvPcKLutQ

Having a funky, jazzy feeling, the title track is in some ways very different from the other songs on the album, but then again the album is touching a lot of different styles. The freedom to let each song take it`s very own direction as it comes along, is something we highly praise.
The main parts of the song came along quite quickly, with the band jamming in the rehearsal studio. It started out with Tom Inge Andersen introducing the bass figure that you can hear on the verse. He would alternate between this and the two chords that became (what one may think of as) the chorus line of the song. Then Rune Seip Bjørnflaten came up with the melodies on the spot and the rhythmical twists, and adding the guitar melody. So we build around this, arranging it in plenum, adding an intro and some other themes that we had been working on, and there you go! The funny and highly creative setting that it is collaborating with a band of musicians having different approaches, and often strong opinions, thus still being able to melt these differences into a common creative effort, is of high value and tend to lead us to what, for each of us, is uncharted areas song writing wise.

The lyrics came along as a strong heartfelt response to the world situation of today. It seeks to appeal to the deep, soft, spot that is the heart of all human beings, of all sentient beings. This spot is often hiding behind superficial differences, leading to fear and aggression. It is from this place, this common ground, that we may build a better future - it is up to you and me. This is “The Key”. Enjoy!

In the video, the song is introduced by an electronic piece of music called, “Blessed be”. Sounds on this are made by Tom Inge Andersen. On this track we also have the great honour to join forces with the late Gilli Smyth. We thank her with deep love, respect and joyfulness! Also, we are utterly grateful for Orlando Allen letting us have her magical spirit-voice on the album, thank you!

"The Key" can be downloaded here with extra bonus track, “Blessed be”.

For fans of both progressive and psychedelic rock and jazz, like Yes, Gong, Gentle Giant, King Crimson, Van der Graaf Generator, Jefferson Airplane, Terje Rypdal and more

Recorded live at “Kan Lyd” studio in Skien.

Produced by Swifan Eolh & the Mudra Choir and Kjetil Arvesen Nesheim.
Engineered and mixed by Kjetil Arvesen Nesheim. Mastered by Frode Berg at «Your sound mastering».

Full album releases January 18, 2019