Seems like Andrea Haugen goes back to her roots and has now found the perfect balance for her musical vision. Of course, Andrea Haugen is still a very spiritual personality, coloring her music with mystical as well as shamanic elements (Deep Waters) and tribal-like drums echoing from times long gone known as Hagalaz’ Rundedance and Aghast. While her first record Laguz under her old moniker NEBELHEXË emerged more as a rocking adaptation of older Hagalaz’ Runedance material, she plunged too deep into Dance-like electronic music on the second one Essensuals, overdrawn and unbalanced.
Now, on Dead Waters, she goes even further back into the past, reflecting on her musical roots in the 80’s. Subtle and reserved New-Wave-rooted guitar work (Digital Sleep) dominates, only once rocking out a little bit more in Fallen. Likewise unobtrusive electronics, but also earthy bass lines and even Trip Hop treats mesmerize in Charmed (Again).
Deep Waters is much detailed, many instruments, tones and melodies can be discovered with every new run. Deep Waters is contemplative, yet subtly pulsing of intensity and energy and though emerging as somewhat I’d call plain and minimalist. A great and emotional record!