Benedicte Brænden

Benedicte Brænden from Elverum, Norway, delivers Americana with a twist — an original sound with a unique mix of country noir and a hint of rockabilly, all laced with Benedicte's characteristic voice.

For many Norwegians, Benedicte is known from «Lyden av Lørdag», a show from the Norwegian National Broadcasting Corporation, where she placed among the top finalists. Before that, she was the lead singer of the popular rock ‘n’ roll band, Bazooka Boppers, until she chose to pursue a solo career in 2006.

In the spring of 2007, Benedicte had a unique opportunity to tour Germany with the band Tito & Tarantula, known from movies like «Desperado» and «From Dusk Till Dawn». This tour opened up an all new audience for Benedicte. Shortly after, she again had the opportunity to tour Germany, as well as Austria and Switzerland — this time with Boss Hoss. The response was formidable; in 2009 she toured Germany as a solo-show to sold out venues. Her debut album, «Doghouse Rose», was released in 2012 to critical acclaim.

«Doghouse Rose», is country rock with influences by artists like Steve Earle and Kasey Chambers.

«Blood On Your Hands», Benedicte’s long-awaited second album, is darker, more mysterious, and — in a way — more powerful. It is based around minimalistic drumming and a heavy, yet groovy, double bass spiced with organ, trumpets and accordion. You can almost feel the desert wind and hear the coyotes.

Benedicte co-produced «Blood On Your Hands» with Christian Engfelt in 2017 at Studio Paradiso in Oslo, Norway. A new sound signature was provided by Stian Nybru and Svein Åge Lade Lillehamre from the rhythm section of rockabilly outfit The Lucky Bullets. Guitarists included Stian Sveen (Lucky Lips) and Ian F. Johannessen (Big Truck, Billy T Band). Several of the best musicians and artists in Norway — Anne Marit Bergheim (Katzenjammer), David Wallumrød (Jarle Bernhoft, Knut Reiersrud), Signe Marie Rustad and Malin Pettersen — made guest appearances. The album received rave reviews.