The Artists Behind the Sound

Michael A. Muller, best known as the co-founder of the instrumental duo Balmorhea, brings a rich history of composition and scoring to Unna. His work extends beyond Balmorhea, encompassing solo recordings and collaborations with a diverse array of artists, including Hania Rani, Alva Noto, Víkingur Ólafsson, The Album Leaf, and Douglas McCombs of Tortoise. Muller’s ability to weave intricate textures and emotional depth is a hallmark of his style.

Otto A. Totland, the creative force behind half of the Norwegian experimental ambient duo Deaf Center, contributes a distinct sensibility honed through years of pushing the boundaries of minimalist sound. Deaf Center’s releases on Type Records and Sonic Pieces are considered foundational texts in the ambient music canon. Totland’s acclaimed solo piano trilogy, produced by Nils Frahm, further solidified his reputation as a master of evocative and introspective soundscapes.

A Dialogue of Distance and Introspection

The title, Unna – Norwegian for “away” – encapsulates the core concept of the EP. It speaks to both the geographical separation between Muller and Totland during the creative process and the internal journey of artistic immersion. The music itself is a delicate interplay between Totland’s intimately recorded piano and Muller’s textural contributions on double bass, glockenspiel, Mellotron, and Rhodes. How does physical distance influence the creative process, and can that influence be *heard* in the final product?

Turnbull’s dedication to the listening experience extends beyond the music itself. His HiFi Listening Room Dream No. 1, a permanent installation at 180 Studios, is a meticulously designed space intended to honor both the artist’s vision and the listener’s engagement. It’s a testament to the belief that the environment in which music is heard is as crucial as the music itself.

Unna is available now as a limited edition 180g vinyl pressing of only 500 copies worldwide, obtainable through The Vinyl Factory. Listeners can experience a preview of the EP with the visualiser for the track ‘Rolig’.

The collaboration between Muller and Totland represents a convergence of established artistic voices, resulting in a work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. What role does collaboration play in pushing artists beyond their established boundaries?

Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Unna’

• What is the significance of the album title, ‘Unna’?

  ‘Unna’ is a Norwegian word meaning “away.” It represents both the physical distance between the artists during creation and the inward journey of the creative process, where focus deepens and time seems to dissolve.

• Who are Michael A. Muller and Otto A. Totland?

  Michael A. Muller is a composer and musician known for his work with Balmorhea and numerous collaborations. Otto A. Totland is a member of Deaf Center and a celebrated solo pianist, whose trilogy was produced by Nils Frahm.

• What instruments are featured on the ‘Unna’ EP?

  The EP features delicate piano work from Otto A. Totland, complemented by Michael A. Muller’s contributions on double bass, glockenspiel, Mellotron, and Rhodes.

• Where can I purchase a copy of the ‘Unna’ vinyl?

  Unna is available for purchase on 180g vinyl exclusively through The Vinyl Factory. It is a limited edition pressing of 500 copies.

• What is Devon Turnbull’s connection to this release?

  Devon Turnbull’s Ojas Music label released Unna in partnership with The Vinyl Factory. Turnbull is also known for his audiophile-focused HiFi Listening Room Dream No. 1 at 180 Studios.