Runar Blesvik – All the Difference (Fluttery Records, 2025)
Norwegian composer, producer, and pianist Runar Blesvik has unveiled his sixth album, All the Difference. This six-track collection offers a profound exploration of choice, reflection, and transformation, mixing western classical traditions with modern elements such as electronic music.
Recorded at Urban Sound Studios in Oslo, the album features Blesvik’s delightful piano as its foundation, supported by the Arcobaleno String Quartet, clarinetist Jussan Cluxnei, and other exceptional musicians on strings and percussion. Ambient synths and soundscapes seamlessly weave through the arrangements, creating a deeply mesmerizing fusion of acoustic and electronic textures that is both grounded and expansive.
Inspired by Robert Frost’s iconic poem The Road Not Taken, the compositions represent pivotal moments in life. Tracks like the emotive opener “Finding,” the playful “Off the Cut,” and the ethereal closer “Through Glass” traverse a wide emotional spectrum, guided by gentle piano melodies, atmospheric textures, and propulsive percussion.
Blesvik’s artistic involvement extends to every aspect of the album, including mixing and mastering, which he completed in his home studio. “Handling every step of the creative process gives me full control over my vision,” Blesvik notes. “It also exposes me to my own vulnerabilities, which has been an invaluable part of my growth as an artist.”
While western classical music forms the backbone of All the Difference, subtle jazz influences and cinematic elements enrich its depth and complexity. The album alternates between solo piano, intimate chamber arrangements, and sweeping, cinematic landscapes, pushing the boundaries of modern western classical music while honoring its roots.
The album’s visual presentation further enhances the listening experience. French illustrator Aude Brisson designed the evocative cover art, mirroring the album’s themes of reflection and transformation with compelling imagery.
Blesvik’s work reflects his deep connection to the dramatic landscapes of Western Norway, where he grew up.
Buy All the Difference.