MP3: Madrugada - Whatever happened to you?
The new Madrugada album is far too emotionally charged to be subjected to standard music criticism. The death of guitarist Robert Burås looms large over the proceedings, so to find fault is to be a callous, unsympathetic jerk. Fortunately, the band has bowed out with a more than adequate swan song so such considerations are null and void. All things considered, it's amazing they even finished the album at all as Robert's signature guitarwork is keystone to Madrugada's sound. It's readily apparent from the very first track "Whatever happened to you?", a song of treachery and betrayal. Even with the multiple guitar tracks on this recording, the thing most evident about Robert's playing is his use of space and dynamics. Chords are left hanging open and ringing out, providing perfect counterpoint to Sivert Høyem's vocals. Sometimes it's just a single note, whatever the mood calls for. But no matter what, he never overplays and it's this restraint that is his greatest asset. For Madrugada to continue on without him beyond paying tribute would be treasonous. That they left us with such a fine piece of work is a gift.
Madrugada - Whatever happened to you?