Nils Petter Molvaer - An American Compilation (2006)

*An American Compilation* (2006) is a compelling collection that highlights the innovative and genre-defying work of Nils Petter Molvær. Known for blending elements of jazz with ambient, electronic, and experimental soundscapes, Molvær crafts a distinctive sonic identity that pushes the boundaries of modern jazz. Released by Thirsty Ear, this compilation brings together a curated selection of tracks that showcase his evolving artistic vision and his ability to merge acoustic instrumentation with electronic textures.

The album presents a deeply atmospheric and cinematic listening experience, characterized by spacious sound design, layered textures, and a strong sense of mood. Tracks such as *Solid Ether* and *Water* emphasize his signature trumpet tone, often processed and interwoven with electronic beats and ambient layers. The presence of live recordings and remixes adds variety, highlighting different interpretations of his work while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

With contributions from a talented group of collaborators, including producers and remix artists, the compilation captures the collaborative spirit that defines much of Molvær’s output. The result is an immersive journey through sound, where minimalism, groove, and atmosphere converge into a uniquely expressive and forward-thinking jazz experience.

Tracklist:
1. Water
2. Solid Ether
3. Nebulizer (edited)
4. Kakonita
5. Kakonita (Deathprod mix)
6. Darker (Mungolian Jet Set Metro mix)
7. Vilderness (Live from Hamburg)
8. Little Indian
9. Frozen
10. Tabula Rasa
11. Only These Things Count

Personnel:
Audun Erlien - Bass, Bass Programming
CF Wesenberg - Photography
Chris Sansom - Mastering
Deathprod - Producer, Remixing
Helge Norbakken - Percussion
Jock Loveband - Mixing
Jonas Bendiksen - Photography
Knut Saevik - Bass, Drum Programming, Editing, Keyboards, Producer, Programming, Remixing
Magne 'Mags' Furuholmen - Piano
Nils Petter Molvaer - Ambience, Bass, Beats, Drums, Keyboards, Programming, Sampling, Treatments, Trumpet, Vocals
Pal "Strangefruit" Nyhus - Ambience, Drum Programming, Editing, Loop, Mixing, Producer, Programming, Remixing, Soundscape
Raymond C. Pellicer - Bass, Bass Programming, Drums, Electronics, Loop, Loops, Programming, Vocal Editing
Rune Arnesen - Drums, Percussion
Sidsel Endresen - Vocals, Voices