ABOUT

Ophelia Hope is comprised of a Norwegian singer, an Italian producer, an Australian songwriter and English percussionist. Despite the cosmopolitan make-up, the band is firmly and proudly entrenched in Bergen, Norway.

The music can best be described as pop-noir, high on hooks and harmonies. Primarily acoustic, symphonic and airy musically, but with dark overtones in the lyrics. Imagine Burt Bacharach writing on a rainy Sunday morning with a killer hangover in a Parisian brothel and you may get somewhere near the style of songwriter/guitarist Paul Holden. The songs clearly want to be optimistic but struggle with the conflicting nature of human existence.

However, upon hearing the angelic, dreamy tones of local girl Ingrid L Mjanger's lead vocals the weather starts clearing up. Fine-tuned after years of singing back-up with local artists such as Sondre Lerche, Julian Berntzen, Nathalie Nordnes, and gaining prominence with her own jazz quartet, the voice of Ingrid steps into the role with lazy ease. Throw in the production vision and bass playing of Davide Bertolini, the percussion work of new recruit Craig Farr, as well as a crafty string section, and the result leaves you wanting to get out of bed and start the recovery party.

Ingrid L Mjanger (vocals): Recordings and live performances with Sondre Lerche, Julian Berntzen, Tweeterfriendly Music and Nathalie Nordnes.

Davide Bertolini (bass): Producer of Kings of Convenience album "Riot on an empty street".

Craig Farr (drums and percussion): Steve Reich, Ugress, Bit20, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Trondheim Symphonic Orchestra.

Paul Holden (guitars): Singer-songwriter who has played in various bands in Sydney, Australia.