Fränder (SWEDEN)

Forged deep in the forests of northern Sweden, the music of Fränder beckons to all acoustic folk fans at TD Sunfest ‘23 who appreciate great musicianship, humour and harmonies. And if you’re feeling a tad chilled, the ensemble’s seductive harmonies, heavy grooves and mesmerizing energy will invite you into a musical landscape filled with warmth, mystery and a love of adventure.

Formed in 2015 in Uppsala, Sweden, Fränder began as a family band – as befits the name (an old Swedish word referring to both family and kin, and also to fellow human-beings). In this case, it’s the Dluzewska family: Natasja (principal vocals, fiddle), Gabbi (Swedish bosoki, mandolin, vocals) and Daniel (double bass, vocals), who were joined by Estonian flautist/vocalist Säde Tatar. In 2023, Björn Tollin (percussion) and Alva Granström (vocals & fiddle) are new additions to the lineup. With members from Sweden and Estonia, their roots run deep in the soil of both countries. At the same time, their branches spread out towards the furthest shores of music, to connect the roots of traditional music with modern influences. They wish to create a bridge between the past and the present.

Applauding the group’s maturity and intelligence, critic David Kidman wrote, “Fränder have everything going for them … (They are) one of the most characterful and original of the latest wave of contemporary folk bands to come out of Sweden.”