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Maps of Norway is not merely a simple retread of styles from early 80s UK. Sister Stations is not just a recording you can slip easily in your collection to be enjoyed leisurely. You will need to come to this recording on its own terms. The rhythm section uses Matt Helgeson’s rubbery bass and Jeff Ball’s whip-snap drums to carve out a large space of sound for Eric Hanson’s atmospheric guitar lines, which sketch out melodies, and other coded bits of information. Rebecca Morcial brings actual singing (maybe even crooning) and a distinctive stage presence to the band. Maps of Norway has a familiar feel, but they remain unique, putting their own stamp on what in lesser hands could be a too well-worn sound.
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