“..of solid international caliber, and its tonal language contains elements of both Nordic and American tradition. The music also bears a personal trademark—this is brilliantly executed. ”
— Jan Gunnar Hoff
SayWhat
Biography
SayWhat is a collaborative band featuring pianist Nicolay Svennæs, guitarist Steinar Jeffs, bassist Simen Børven and drummer Kristian Frøland. The band incorporates the members’ myriad of influences: progrock, pop, hiphop, folk, americana, and electronica, among many others. The Norwegian group’s music conjures scenic imagery in the mind of the listener and is known for its melodic and atmospheric qualities as well as dynamic grooves.
The band formed while its members were studying at the Institute for Rhythmic Music in Kristiansand, where they released their first EP in 2013. Saxophonist Bendik Hofseth made a guest appearance on the title track, which was mixed by Jan Erik Kongshaug at Rainbow Studio. The EP was enthusiastically received during a tour in Palestine, organized in collaboration with the Edward Said Music Conservatory in Bethlehem.
In 2022, SayWhat released their debut album, Scenery, and in 2025, they will unveil a new album— "Istansand" a collaborative project with Turkish musician Cenk Erdogan.
The band features:
Keys – Nicolay Tangen Svennæs (Emilie Nicolas, Jarle Bernhoft, Ingebjørg Bratland, among others)
Bass – Simen Børven (Leprous)
Guitar – Steinar Jeffs
Drums – Kristian Frøland