For most musicians, starting a solo career generally entails composing catchy melodies, memorable lyrics, and a talented group of artists to back you up. However, Nor had other ideas.
After 13 years as a multitalented musician, and time spent in a number of group projects, Nor was born, a solo labor without any outside help.
Originally a drummer, Nor wanted to create music that made people move, inspired them, and made them feel something deep inside. Feeling that keyboards might be an easier excursion than the guitar, Nor taught himself how to play, and began recording all of his own material on both instrument and computer, culminating in his first full length album, Speed Up Father! You Won’t Regret it.
Influenced by everything from Daft Punk to New Order to the Rolling Stones, the sound is one that certainly can’t be listened to sitting down, it’s catchy, and poppy, but not in a way that seems contrived. The artist himself describes the music as “robotic” and “pop sensible.”
Aside from the melodic elements, the lyrical content of a Nor song is worth paying attention to. Each song is its own short story, all involving relationships of one kind or another, ranging from political to romantic. In addition, the mood of the music coincides with lyrics pertaining to visions of the artist, often times writing about dreams that touch upon love, life and death.
The album recording was intensive, encompassing over 60 hours of recording time; vocal recording alone took over 20 takes per track. Every sound specific, every element planned out, Nor was exceptionally particular in the outcome of the project. Shortly after the strenuous recording, Nor took time to play a small string of dates with a friend in California, where his music was exceptionally well-received.
At only 25 years of age, Nor certainly is a young player in the game. Considering the hard work, dedication, and passion put into the album, it is safe to say that Nor is definitely one to watch and listen for in 2009, and we can expect a trail of success to follow suit
REVIEWS
I dare anyone to hear the music of Nor and stay still. It cannot be done! There is just too much energy in this music, it's contagious. Songs like "Nailbiter" and "Dance Party Love You" make you hope no one is around because you just have to get up and move. Whether you are running on the treadmill or cleaning your dorm or getting ready for the day -- Nor will send you this surge of energy to power through it all and you will more than likely add a little something to your step with this music. It's as if electronica, dance, club and (somehow) an action movie made music -- this is exactly what it would sound like.
Reviewer: Delmy Cabrera -- Radio DePaul
Hooray for 23 year old singer/ musicians from the Mid-West making emotionally charged new wave! Hooray for one-man bands! Hooray for Nor!
Reviewer: Toph One -- XLR8R Magazine
