Bjørn Bank

Bjørn Berge is a singer and guitarist of Norwegian blues, born the September 23rd 1968 with Haugesund, Norway. Rewarded in its country at the time of the local victories of the music, the originality of its music rests on the fact that it is very seldom accompanied musicians. Indeed, whether it is on scene or album, Bjørn only plays. Unanimously recognized by the specialized press for which its talent is, inter alia, to make its music as captivating and alive as if it were about a complete group.

Biography

Bjørn begins the Guitare at the 13 years age but passes quickly to the Banjo which it finds more " cool". After having played of the Bluegrass during several years, the revelation takes place when he discovers Robert Johnson, Elmore James, Leo Kottke and John Hammond Jr. which will be its major influences.

Bjørn occurs during years in clubs and small rooms before obtaining any recognition; they are its uncertainty and lean years. It spends its time wandering of port in port, armed with its only guitar like partner, in the search of places where to occur. It is at the prices of these many galères that it is today one of the most respected musicians of Norway.

It is only in 1999 with the exit of the 3rd album Blues Hit Me that the critic and the public are interested finally in him. Success reinforced with the exit the following year of Bag off Nails . A more direct disc, more immediate which will enable him to be recognized as experienced artist.

Bjørn has since left the albums String Machine and Illustrated Man and turned in the whole world, only or in company of large musicians like Chuck Berry (40 years its elder).

Style

Although its principal influences remain Robert Johnson and Elmore James, its musical curiosity prevents it from remaining locked up in only one style. He does not hesitate to incorporate sonorities resulting from the Funk or Hip-hop in a music resulting from the traditional blues. Besides he acknowledges his passion for artists like Beck or the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

It is however on scene that the music of Bjørn takes all its dimension. Armed with his only guitar and his foot, the artist in fright plays as if it had 50 pairs of arm and animates the scene more than would do it a group of several musicians.

Discography

Bank/Flaaten (1994)
Bjørn Bank (1997)
Hit Blues Me (1999)
Bag off Nails (2000)
String Machine (2001)
Illustrated Man (2002)
St.Slide (2004)
We' Re Gonna Groove! (2006)
I' m The Antipop (2007)

External bonds

Official site of Bjørn Bank

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