The Northern Belle, an anchor of Norway’s Americana music scene, are gearing up to release a new album in 2024. Fortunately we don’t have to wait until next year to be treated to new music from the group. “Merchant Navy Hotel”, the first single from the album arrives later this week but you can hear it here first.
Music and melodically, the group stays true to their sound and the charm that makes them special. The song has a wonderful mix of effervescence and melancholy, ushered along by pristine harmonies.
The lyrics tell a very unique and personal tale. Singer-songwriter Stine Andreassen explains:
Middlesbrough 1969: My grandparents rented a house from Mr. Cook. The boat my grandfather worked on was in port, and my grandmother visited from Norway. The visit was supposed to last a few days but lasted eight weeks. They went for coffee and movies at the Norwegian Seamen’s Church, played slot machines at the Merchant Navy Hotel, and went dancing. The song is based on letters sent between my grandparents way back then.
Twangville is honored to premiere “Merchant Navy Hotel”, the first single from the forthcoming album by The Northern Belle.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.