幼馴染のErik K Skodvinと同じくアンビエント・ドローン・ユニットのDeaf Centerの片割れであり、UKの音響系レーベルSereinオーナーのHuw Robertsとのデュオ、Nestの片割れでもあるOtto A Totland(オット・エー・トットランド)。身長202cm(!)の大きな体型からは想像できないほど何とも優しいソフトタッチで、体温的で優しく、メランコリックで美しいピアノを響かせて魅せた彼の新作ソロ・アルバム『Pino』は、ポスト・クラシカルの域に留まる事なく様々な方面から大きな評価を獲得しました。ピアノひとつで様々な情感ある音風景と安らぎをもたらしてくれる大名作です。そんな新作を引っ提げて、所属しているベルリンのレーベルSonic Piecesの仲間たちといよいよ初来日!もちろん新潟にも!
Deaf Centerは、僕の音楽のメインパートナーであるErik K. Skodvinとやっている、ダーク・アコースティック/エレクトロニック・アンビエントのプロジェクト。NestはSereinレーベルのオーナー、Huw Robertsとのコラボレーションで、メロディック/ミニマリスティック・アンビエントだね。
I'm Otto A. Totland, musician from Norway. People know me as half of Deaf Center and Nest (Serein). Recently I released a solo piano album on Moniques label Sonic Pieces.
Your new album "Pino" is really fantastic! What do you have the concept when you start to make this?
Thank you. "Pino" is a collection of compositions and improvisations that I've developed over many years of playing the piano. I wanted to do a solo piano album for a long time. I got the opportunity to do it at Nils Frahms Durton Studios. I didn't have a clear concept of what I wanted it to sound like before recording. It's a very personal release for me and I think that is reflected in the recording.
What inspires you to create music?
I've always been naturally drawn to composing music. Nature, films, music - everything can be a trigger for inspiration. Also, playing with other people is very inspiring to me.
Do you think that you were influenced by any kind of music?
Calm, minimalistic and melodic music has been my biggest inspiration. Music that carries a specific mood and that feels authentic. Music where you can hear the characteristic of the composer.
How did you become interested in sound construction?
I was naturally drawn to it from an early age. I started out playing the piano. Then moved on to computer, synths and keyboards, working with trackers and sequencers. Now I have taken a break from computers and I'm more into just playing the piano. I really enjoy that these days.
"Pino" was released from Sonic Pieces. How is the label?
Sonic Pieces is like a "home" label for me. Both Monique and Erik are close friends of mine. I resonate with the artists, music and style. For me, Sonic Pieces is authentic quality.
You have some projects as Deaf Center, Nest. How is each of the units?
Deaf Center is a project with my main music partner Erik K Skodvin. Dark acoustic/electronic ambient. Nest is a collaboration with Serein label owner Huw Roberts - melodic/minimalistic ambient.
How is the music scene in Norway for you?
Actually, I haven't been too involved in the Norwegian music scene myself. We've only had one live show in Norway as Deaf Center. I would say the Norwegian music scene is a good outlet for jazz, metal and rock.
You will come to Japan soon! I can't wait! How do you feel the Japan Tour?
Yes! I'm really looking forward to experiencing your beautiful country. This will be my first time in Japan. I've always been impressed with your culture.
Please let me know near future plan.
For music, I don't have any concrete plans. I do want to get back into composing ambient music again. Hopefully some new Deaf Center material.
Please give a massage to Japanese fans!
I'm really looking forward to seeing you and I can't wait to perform "Pino" for you guys :)
INTERVIEW in April 2014
TRANSLATED by Naoko Yamada
TEXT by Masato Hoshino