Frode Andresen, ATLYS - Aurora Polaris (2026) [Hi-Res]

A conceptual suite for keyboards and string quartet composed by Frode Andresen. Joined with him is the acclaimed string quartet ATLYS.

Andresen and ATLYS have collaborated before, notably on Andresen’s album The Composer’s Nightmare (2021), as well as on several smaller projects. Aurora Polaris is their most ambitious collaboration to date and has taken more than four years to complete.

The project began with Andresen’s desire to explore, experiment, and compose specifically for string quartet. A conceptual idea soon emerged, centered around the use of different keyboard instruments in each movement, in close interplay with the string quartet. Over time, the music also revealed a distinctly northern, winter-like atmosphere.

The final result is Aurora Polaris — an eight-movement suite for various keyboard instruments and string quartet, situated in a crossover landscape between classical music, jazz, rock, and funk. All performers are given ample space to showcase their talents through deep musical expression, virtuosity, and improvisation.

Special thanks to Trine C. Andresen for her love and support, and for helping shape the conceptual idea.

And special thanks to ATLYS for sharing your beautiful talents, and for your unwavering support and encouragement throughout this project.