Norwegian duo with knack for carving classy covers. Susanna Wallumrod and Morten Qvenild followed their 2004 debut with a covers album, Melody Mountain, and it´s no criticism to say that the two covers here stand out: this minimalist sound, flecked with jazz or electronica, exposes the songs most intimately. So the poignancy of Roy Harper´s "Another Day" and the wit of Rush´s "Subdivisions" glisten afresh. The Norwegian´s own songs are deliberately delicate, with "Guiding Light" recalling Lionheart-era Kate Bush and "Someday" a flickering candle of hope. Members of Wildbirds And Peacedrums and Madrugada guest, in tune with the tastefulness. 4/5.
Uncut (UK)

Norwegian duo prove 3 is the magical number. Best known for their 2006 covers album Melody Mountain, Susanna And The Magical Orchestra have veered dangerously close to become the arthouse Novelle Vague. Their third album, however, shows there´s more to Susanna Wallumrod and Morten Qvenild than incongruous takes on Crazy, Crazy Nights and It´s A Long Way To The Top (If You Wanna Rock & Roll). While the band- bolstered by members of Jaga Jazzist and Wildbirds & Peacedrums - can´t resist a version of Rush´s Subdivisions, 3 has an ancient-modern character of its own. Recall has the Hounds Of Love on its tail, Palpatine´s Dream is through-the-looking-glass electro-pop - yet the piano introspection of Lost sounds completely off-grid. Not a destination if you wanna rock & roll, but otherwise idyllic. 4/5.
Mojo (UK)

Dominated by Susanna´s impressive, considered tone, the music dances around her in flighty shimmers with markedly more apparent electronic sounds added to the mix. "3" demands your full attention and is worth every minute spent on it.
Clash (UK)

Karen Carpenter meets Joy Division in gothic synth-pop heaven. The cult Norwegian duo´s third album more than upholds their excellent standards while offering a further twist to the tale: a full conversion to beyond-the-pale 1980s keyboard sounds. Not all the 10 songs here are equally good but at it´s best - "Recall", "Someday", "Palpatine´s Dream", a beautiful cover of Roy Harper´s "Another Day" - this is truly awe-inspiring music, provoking deep thoughts and sublime feelings.
The Independent On Sunday (UK)