Seinferð

Faroe Islands-born, Copenhagen-based Lea Kampmann’s Seinferð (translated as Slow Motion) is characterised by a desire to encourage greater engagement with Faroese – one of the often-overlooked minority Nordic languages, and a beautifully melodic and alluring one at that. Co-written with Faroese musician and composer Teitur Lassen during a snowstorm in Tórshavn, the album was shaped by Kampmann’s grief following her grandmother’s death, as well as Kampmann’s reflections on the hectic pace and stress of modern life. As Kampmann describes it, Seinferð is “a rebellion against the fast-paced world we are living in.” Consequently, acoustic instruments dominate. Alongside Kampmann on vocals and guitars, the album features a rich musical landscape of oboe, clarinet, strings and occasional synth from a large array of guest musicians. Seinferð’s irresistible, atmospheric low-key indie folk and pop sound captivates. Lea Kampmann’s soft, gentle vocals are particularly enchanting, especially on ‘Vestmanna í Kava’, ‘Telji Upp í Handrað’ and ‘Pappírstunn’. In all, this is a beguiling and harmonious listen, flourishing in spiritual healing and calming reflection.