Ever since we covered his excellent single "Warm Night in Oslo," we've had our eye on this Norwegian artist. Jesper Hasnaoui has that elusive mix of a very distinct singing voice, fantastic writing talents, and a production aesthetic that feels like a perfect match for his sensibilities. He is not afraid to create songs that feel both languorous and light, positioning his sound somewhere between Alexi Murdoch and James Vincent McMorrow, as he gracefully explores the musical synergy between melancholy and nature.
His is a creative force inspired through emotional contrast, with a therapeutic vibe expressed via lingering, atmospheric tracks that are often accompanied by delicate guitars, layers of soothing electronic pads, and earthy percussion. His debut full-length release is called "Twenty Eight Year Slumber," and finds him hitting his stride with confidence and faultless execution. This impressive album is the culmination of years spent honing his craft, which is evident in both the guitar-work and the range of instrumentation. With songs that feel deliciously suspended between chamber pop and roots-adjacent folk, this 12-track opus deserves to be listened to in its entirety—as we allow ourselves for the better part of an hour to visit a world that is at times both blissful and poignant. Jesper Hasnaoui's heartfelt music allows us to revel in the simple beauty of an acoustic guitar, supported by gorgeous orchestral and folk rock elements that include strings, french horns, piano, and lap steel guitar.
