Nine Songs: Susanne Sundfør

Norwegian singer-songwriter Susanne Sundfør’s latest album, Revelations, marks a significant evolution in her artistic journey, intertwining themes of spiritual hope and personal transformation. The project was notably inspired by medieval mysticism, particularly the writings of Julian of Norwich, a 14th-century religious recluse whose visions of divine love informed the album's conceptual framework.

Sundfør’s engagement with historical female figures emerged after encountering Janina Ramirez’s 2022 bestseller, Femina, which highlights overlooked women in cultural history. The book’s depiction of Hildegard von Bingen’s cosmological imagery and Julian of Norwich’s theological insights resonated deeply with Sundfør, guiding her toward a creative direction centered on expansive love and reassurance.

This thematic shift represents a departure from the darker and more politically charged moods of her earlier albums, such as The Brothel (2010), The Silicone Veil (2012), and Music for People in Trouble (2017). While Sundfør’s prior work contained elements of spirituality and hope, Revelations places these concepts at its core, reflecting her current life experiences, including the challenges of motherhood and health issues postpartum.

The album's sound was shaped in collaboration with British pianist and organist Kit Downes, whose classical and jazz background complemented Sundfør’s experimental approach. Their partnership began during live performances that reimagined Sundfør’s catalog with church organ and voice, an endeavor that serendipitously aligned with her discovery of Julian of Norwich. The proximity of Downes’s upbringing to the historical church connected to Norwich’s legacy added an unexpected layer of significance to the project.

Despite personal health setbacks following the birth of her second child, Sundfør and Downes succeeded in completing the album, with Downes contributing over half of the compositions. This collaborative dynamic enriched the record’s textured and meditative qualities, underscoring the intuitive creative process behind it.

Reflecting on the songs that have influenced her life and artistry, Sundfør credits a diverse range of musical inspirations. Early familial experiences included mixtapes featuring John Lennon and The Beatles, which introduced her to the power of compelling songwriting and emotive vocal performances. Her classical training began with violin and piano before focusing on singing, where she overcame performance anxieties through perseverance and supportive encounters.

Jazz singer Radka Toneff’s album Fairytales stands out as a profound influence, particularly for its raw and intimate delivery. Sundfør recalls how Toneff’s presence on the recording left a lasting impression during a difficult period in her youth, shaping her own artistic aspirations. Despite Toneff’s limited international recognition, her impact within Norway’s jazz community remains significant.

Among singer-songwriters, Joni Mitchell occupies a pivotal role in Sundfør’s development. She regards Mitchell’s 1972 album For the Roses as a masterpiece of poetic songwriting and emotional depth. This influence is evident in Sundfør’s emphasis on lyrical narrative and complex melodies throughout her career.

Sundfør’s exploration of electronic music was partly inspired by Radiohead, whose album Kid A prompted her transition from acoustic folk toward more experimental sounds. Her experience attending their In Rainbows tour in Paris, where Bat for Lashes opened, added a personal dimension to her appreciation of contemporary music scenes.

Throughout her career, Sundfør has navigated the intersections of classical and contemporary music, challenging the notion that these paths are mutually exclusive. Her incorporation of classical ornamentation techniques into modern compositions exemplifies this synthesis.

Revelations emerges as a reflective and hopeful work, born from a combination of historical inspiration, collaborative synergy, and personal resilience. Sundfør’s ability to channel spiritual themes through innovative musical expression positions her as a distinctive voice in contemporary music, bridging past and present influences with authenticity and depth.