Boastein

Introduction to Boastein

Boastein was a Norwegian musical duo formed in 1970. The group initially went by the name Boastein Byron Cigarette Army. The members were guitarist and keyboardist Oistein Boassen and vocalist Are Storstein. They began their musical journey at a cottage in Osen, Norway. Their debut album, Jeg Har Min Egen Luke, was released in 1977 on their own label, Vilde Vinge.

Production and Release

The album was pressed in a limited run of just 450 copies. This scarcity was due to a shortage of printed album covers. To encourage sales, the album was offered at a reduced price. The duo recorded the music using modest equipment, which contributed to a raw and unpolished sound. Critics often described this sound as "hjemmesnekret rock," translating to "home-built rock." This style reflects the duo's DIY ethos and their commitment to independent music production.

Musical Style and Themes

Jeg Har Min Egen Luke features fifteen tracks that blend rock and pop with elements of psychedelic rock. The lyrics are primarily in Norwegian and often contain absurdist themes. Many songs convey politically charged messages. For instance, tracks like "Dyp Som En Krypt - Blueberry Pie" and "Tema Fra En Jødisk Western" illustrate the duo's unique approach to songwriting. Their music captures a spirit of experimentation, using unconventional song structures and instrumentation.

Later Developments

Following the release of their debut, Boastein continued to create music. They produced a second album titled Urgata Hurgata in 1980. In 2021, Jeg Har Min Egen Luke was reissued on CD, followed by a vinyl re-release in 2022. This renewed interest in their work has led to a broader audience discovering their music.

Conclusion

The album Jeg Har Min Egen Luke features tracks like "Albion & The Elves" and "Cotopaxi Vision." It reflects the duo's distinctive approach to music during the 1970s.