Quick Hitters:: Leif Vollebekk

I almost hesitate to call Leif Vollebekk a folk artist. In today’s world, the classic descriptor of folk has evolved into an almost dismissal of talent or a reliance on warbled vocals and picked acoustics that ironically are more self serving than accessible and inspiring.

Leif however, reminds us that the genre can be challenging, inventive and enjoyable. He’s just as comfortable writing stripped down acoustic ditties with offering up a Tom Brosseau like delivery as he is stepping outside of the box and penning stirring piano ballads (like the jazz bar ready, Don't Go to Klaksvik) or fusing a sense of theatrics and melody with the traditional elements and chords.

Above all though, Leif’s songs are beautiful. Each arrangement seems to flow perfectly as he moves from acoustic to piano to violin or even a rollicking full band affair, but he never adds more than required and constantly displayS an uncanny understanding of what listeners need and when they need it. Leif exposes so many styles that you could easily point at contemporaries (Teitur - In the Midst of Blue and Green) as well as the subtle nod to many greats, but really his unique mix of sounds is his and his alone.

Leif is playing a show here in Halifax @ The Company House on September 19th. I’d suggest you make the effort to check him out.

MP3:: Leif Vollebekk - Don't Go to Klaksvik
MYSPACE:: http://www.myspace.com/leifvollebekk

Labels: Canada, Leif Vollebekk, Music, Quick Hitters