Depui Band – Hillbilly Folk Rock from Norway at the Cultural Hall Hemmoor

Bent Ivar Depui Tversland sings about selling one’s soul, personal destiny, hope, light, numerous strokes of fate, falling and getting back up—and he sings impressively. With a simplicity of word choice that is strikingly to the point, he describes not stories, but rather messages of failure and paints pictures of overcoming, all the way to “old childhood dreams” of being a king who can make everything right in the world through his power. The distinctive voice of the Norwegian frontman Bent Ivar Depui Tversland reminds one of a mix between Tom Waits and Joe Cocker. The music is inspired by Balkan rhythms and French chansons, by Gypsy music and rock, with a healthy dose of folk music. Since 2014, DEPUI has been touring with an international lineup. In addition to frontman Bent Ivar Depui Tversland, the band includes Regina Mudrich (violin), Oliver Goltz (guitar), Juri Reckeweg (drums), and Martin Zemke (bass).

Press reviews: “A touching evening that leaves an impression... With the rhythmic cheer of ‘Tusen-tusen-takk’ (in German: ‘Thousand-thousand-thanks’), the audience thanked the Norwegian singer and guitarist Bent Ivar Depui Tversland in his native language for his highly emotional evening of songs ‘Start Healing’, which deeply moved all attendees. The smoky voice of the singer, marked by soul and blues tones, thrilled the guests. They stood up at the end and celebrated him and his ensemble like pop stars. (...) This music quartet was captivating and enthralling, everyone agreed, as they left the church visibly delighted after two and a half hours. It was an evening that leaves a mark!” (MV 01.01.2018)

“Singer-songwriter Bent Ivar Depui Tversland brought the ‘Liberty’s’ to life... The lyrics of the Norwegian artist usually do not tell ‘straight’ stories, but rather contain messages that want to be deciphered. This contrasts very appealingly with the distinctly melodic music that combines folkloric and chanson-like elements and transports different moods—from ecstatic joy to deep sorrow, from melancholic to touching, and even to spirited or furious. These moods are perfectly captured and emphasized by Regina Mudrich on stage with her violin playing. So precisely that even the singer occasionally breaks into a smile that seems to express gratitude. Bass and percussion mostly remain discreetly in the background. However, here and there, bassist Zemke reveals his ‘funky grooving’ side, much to the delight of the listeners.” (Kreiszeitung 12.01.2018)

“In the best singer-songwriter manner, Bent Ivar Depui Tversland presented top-notch handmade music that was refreshing and lively, showcasing a unique profile...” (MV 25.08.2014)

“Such high-quality songwriter music is rarely heard.” (MV 25.08.2014)

“...captivating folk... Bent Ivar Depui Tversland enchanted from the first to the last second.” (Kreiszeitung Wesermarsch, 22.06.15)

“Depui from Oslo completely captivates...” (Kreiszeitung Wildeshausen, 19.06.15)

“They sang and played with energy and passion... Their music was exciting, always captivating...” (MV 25.08.2014)