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Kolman & Calvert — The Pink Carnage of Cartilago
(Apollon Records AP, 2026, CD / LP / DL)

by Henry Schneider, Published 2026-10-20

The Pink Carnage of Cartilago Cover art

Kolman & Calvert is a Norwegian duo consisting of Oslo-based guitarist Susanna Calvert and Trondheim-based vocalist Trine Åshildsdatter Kolmannskog. The two have collaborated previously in Enmesher, and on their debut album The Pink Carnage of Cartilago they create an unusual and often unsettling sound world using little more than vocals, guitar, and a sparse collection of additional instruments. Kolmannskog contributes vocals, Moog, and kalimba, while Calvert handles guitar along with bass, drums, percussion, piano, and backing vocals. The most immediate reference point for me is Laurie Anderson, especially in Kolmannskog's half-spoken, half-sung delivery. The title track provides an obvious example, with its deliberately fractured vocal phrasing of "a very... happy... people." Elsewhere, Calvert's guitar work ranges from sparse and atmospheric to abrasive and confrontational, while the vocals move between intriguing melodic lines, layered harmonies, strange theatrical characterizations, and surreal imagery. At various points I was reminded of Exene Cervenka's off-kilter expressiveness and the dramatic intensity of Diamanda Galás. While much of the album occupies a space somewhere between art rock, cabaret, avant-garde performance, and progressive music, there are enough melodic touches to keep things engaging. The track that stood out most for me is the oddly titled "Worms and Germs," with its cascading guitar figures, wordless vocal passages, and gritty sonic textures. It captures the album's ability to be abrasive and compelling at the same time. Recorded by Marius Gengenbach between 2023 and 2025 at Hytta på Løkka and co-produced by the duo with Gengenbach, the album benefits from a clear, intimate sound that allows every detail to register, from the gentlest vocal inflections to the harshest guitar attacks. Those looking for conventional song structures may find parts of the album challenging, but listeners drawn to adventurous vocal music, unconventional guitar work, and a willingness to explore the strange and unexpected should find plenty here to appreciate. The striking cover artwork by Linn Halvorsrød provides a fitting visual counterpart to the music within.

Filed under: New releases, 2026 releases

Related artist(s): Kolman & Calvert

More info
http://kolmancalvert.bandcamp.com/album/the-pink-carnage-of-cartilago

 

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