Release date: September 24, 2021
After their grand farewell concert in 2015 at Arnhem's Gelredome, it seemed like Normaal was finally done. However, nothing could be further from the truth. In 2019, frontman Ben Jolink released a new album and book, and that same year the band reunited for a sold-out concert in Lochem.
And now, 2.5 years and a lockdown later, there is a new album from the full band, once again packaged in a book full of stories.
"Normee Verhale" wasn't actually planned, but it came about when the band members occasionally got together during the lockdown to pass the time by jamming in Ben's man cave. New song ideas emerged there, contributed by all the band members. After the "Post Normaal" project, Ben also wanted to create a book around it, which in this case consists of two parts. Part 1 covers the recording of the new Normaal album during the 2020 coronavirus lockdown. Ben again describes in his own unique way how the album ultimately came about. All the song lyrics can also be found in this book.
The other part of the book is "Normal Stories." Here, Ben reflects on the band's illustrious adventures over the past 45 years. On the road, at shows, and in the studio. And, of course, without mincing words.
Normale Verhale showcases a Normaal band that seems to have rediscovered its passion. Lyrics interspersed with Achterhoek lyrics and humor, and music based on the roots of blues, country, and Americana.
Ben himself says about the album's creation after a jam session: " We decided to record another album. We'll include it in the book Normale Verhale (Normal Stories). Plus, that way we'll know for sure that we'll have at least a few pleasant (and useful) days during these incredibly unpleasant times. "
Tracklist
- The Last Time
- At home
- The One Say
- Sunday
- The Stove An
- Kold Weajt De Wind
- Stage fright
- I enjoy this
- Book
- Politician
- Come on, grab your coat
- Doing Nothing Is Deadly
- I Want Noar The Black Cross
- It's Always the Same
