LARS FREDRIK FRØISLIE – Un Posto Sotto Il Cielo

Singles are usually not something that this scribe covers in these online pages, but occasionally one has to make an exception, and this beautiful 2-song release by Wobbler’s immensely talented Lars Fredrik Frøislie, which will be released on 10-inch vinyl by Karisma Records, is one such exception.

This one is both new and familiar in the sense that the title track is a different version of the epic and hauntingly melancholy composition titled “Et Sted Under Himmelhvelvet” with lyrics in Italian and sublime vocals performed by none other than Stefano “Lupo” Galifi of Museo Rosenbach fame. The B-side contains the original (Norwegian) studio version of the aforementioned song (which was lifted from last year’s utterly impressive and memorable Fire Fortellinger LP). In that sense, this upcoming release may appear to be something of a curio and a collectors-only item, but listening to Galifi gracing Frøislie’s deftly executed and impeccably arranged tune and infusing it with that unique aura and style associated with his charismatic tone and singing is quite special, and it definitely adds some hitherto unknown flavors and qualities to an already-brilliant song. Comparing sides A and B is actually quite interesting and fun in that they both stand out but for different reasons, if that makes sense. Fire Fortellinger is a must-have and one of the best and most rewarding prog rock gems to have seen the light of day these past few years, which is to say that it is an essential purchase, but although Un Posto Sotto Il Cielo can neither be deemed essential nor a mandatory listen as such, I do recommend that you check it out as the Frøislie/Galifi  combination works like a magical charm, and there is a depth to this riveting rendition of the piece that cannot be denied.