Oslo’s Vegard Wolf Dyvik and Christian Steenstrup make up Of Norway, an eclectic electronic duo consistently releasing stellar music for over a decade. Through cuts on the likes of Connaisseur Recordings, Rockets & Ponies, and Darkroom Dubs and explosive DJ and live gigs, the two are a well-known commodity in underground dance music. This latest single, the Eyes EP, continues a string of top notch releases from Of Norway on the Beatservice imprint.
The duo recently contributed to Beatservice’s Prima Norsk 5 compilation, delivering two tracks instead of the requested single cut. “Normal Eyes” appeared on the collection to much acclaim, but the other track — the also brilliant “Dim Your Eyes” – demanded to be heard. The Eyes EP exposes both tunes and includes remixes from Syntax Erik, Terje Saether, Karl Fraunhofer, and Prins Oblonsky.
“Dim Your Eyes” is a moody breakbeat number, featuring transported-from-another-world vocals, bouncing sub-bass, and deliciously tweaky synth sounds. Its distinctive vibe will stand out in any DJ’s set. “Normal Eyes” is also from a similar vein, but works in house music rhythms and spacey pad hits. A warehouse bass-line – reminiscent of early Warp tracks — takes the lead, accompanied by fluttering arpeggios that chase up and down the scales. The remixes take the tracks in various dance floor directions, from deep house, to peak time rumblers, to mysterious minimal techno ambiance. These ‘Eyes’ are a sublime treat for the ears.
Three (Hallucienda) – “Both originals and the Prins Oblonsky remix for me. I’m a big fan of Of Norway.”
Bruce Tantum (XLR8R) – “Gorgeous music all around. Loving pretty much all of these.”
Meri (Rulers of the Deep) – “Very very cool release.”
Arne Goettsch (Electronic Earthquake) – “Dim Your Eyes is a bomb! Full support.”
Lönya (Asymmetric Recordings) – “Great EP! Full support.”
DJ Firefly (Couch Dancing) – “These are fantastic. Catchy and hypnotic.”
Simon Kirk (Stag Beetle Radio Show) – “Amazing EP. The Terje Saether Remix stands out amongst a very strong tracklist.”
Sharlese (KEXP) – “Very exciting & nice sounds to bring you into the morning.”
Taigo Onez (Bang Le’ Dex radio show) – “Such a beautiful body of work.”
Jon Fugler (XLNT Radio Show) – “Both lead tracks are extremely good, and the remixes turn this into an excellent release. Thoroughly enjoyable.”
Available Now From: Beatport, Bandcamp, Apple Music, And Spotify.