Serras
Serras
GO Folk Music Distribution (www.folkmusic.dk) ([email protected])

The Danish supergroup Serras reworks traditional Danish folk tunes into arrangements that sometimes excite, but more often than not sound pedestrian. The album kicks off with three tracks that are fused together. The "Prolog" is a lovely, haunting fiddle intro by the great fiddle player (and Sorten Muld contributor) Harald Haugaard, which gives way to an unspectacular programmed rhythm track on "Reventlow," and thence on to the burning crunch of "Serras." It's all competently played, the electric instruments scream appropriately, and there is a nod to classic Swedish folk rock projects such as Arbete & Fritid with the inclusion of saxophonist Hans Mydtskov; the fiddle and sax in tandem is enjoyable, but familiar. While Serras aim for power on their debut, more often than not they sound like '70s prog rock without the 'progressive.' Serras are curiously like the Dave Matthews Band playing Danish music.

The rhythm section of Mads Riishede (bass) and Sune Rahbek (drums) is super tight. Funky tracks such as "Fransk Morgenstjerne," and the two live concert selections, show that Serras can groove the night away and keep it LOUD. Still, it's predictable. The challenge for the house of Serras is to take their diverse influences and avoid their own cliches. - Lee Blackstone

Available at cdRoots