PRESENT SIGN by Sverre Knut Johansen

released November 22, 2024

I M P O R T A N T - N O T I C E
If you possess the "Galaxy" album or "New York By Night" that I released a few years ago, you may already be familiar with most of the music featured in this collection.


2 4 / 4 8 k H z - F I L E S
"I am pleased to share that I have created new high-end recordings of the music, now featuring 24-bit/48kHz files. Pro Tools Ultimate at 24-bit/96kHz, utilizing the HD Omni - HD Native and REM Micstasy preamp for enhanced clarity and depth."


H I S T O R Y - B A C K G R O U N D
The early days of my musical journey began in my childhood room at my parents' house during the 70s and 80s.

In the 70s, I experimented with two cassette tape recorders, layering one instrument at a time. For rhythm, I recorded longer drum tracks on both machines, which introduced a unique sense of instability to the beats. This unpredictability could be perceived either as a frustration or as a distinctive quirk, lending a personal touch to my work. During this period, much of my music revolved around rhythms I extracted from cassettes and LPs, always on the lookout for drum parts at the beginning of tracks, free from other instruments.

By the 80s, I had upgraded to a Scully 8-track 1-inch tape recorder paired with the Sound Techniques System 12 mixer, and I began mastering my work on a Technics cassette tape recorder. Throughout these years, rhythm remained the foundational element of my compositions, often sourced from the drum lines of my favorite cassettes and vinyl records.


I N S T R U M E N T S - E Q U I P M E N T S
Roland SH-1000 synthesizer, Roland Vocoder Plus VP 330, PROGRAMMABLE POLYPHONIC SYNTHESIZER KORG POLY 61, Fender Rhodes, Roland Bass guitar synthesizer GR 33b, Ibanez Bass Guitar (taken away the frett for a fretless sound), Casiotone 202 Electronic Musical Instrument, Mini Moog, Technics SX K100, Ibanez Flanger FL 305, Roland Chorus Echo RE 501, BOSS Compression Sustainer CS-1, Boss Equalizer, Tone Bender Fuzz, Watkins CopiCat, Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer, Altec Lansing Model 19 Speakers, and AKG Microphones.


S V E R R E - P L A Y I N G
Sverre Knut Johansen playing; Steinberger bass guitar, fretless bass, bass synth, Roland Bass guitar synthesizer GR 33b, guitars, stings, synths, vocals, plast organ with flanger (Voidophone), cymbals, percussion, blowing bottles, Vocoder, Mini Moog, Jupiter 4, metallic noise effects, tambourine, the Casio Casio tone 202 and Vocals.



S O N G S - D E E P E R T E X T - C R E D I T S

1. Lunar Petal 1980
Inspired by the moon's celestial beauty and the delicate blooms of nature, this track creates a soothing ambiance that embodies serenity and healing. Each note feels like a soft petal floating under the moonlight, representing tenderness, love, and the nurturing aspects of life. This composition encourages introspection and reflection, reminding listeners of the cycles of growth and the importance of remaining attuned to the gentle rhythms that connect us all.

Sverre Knut Johansen; guitars, bass-synth and synths from the Roland SH-1000 synthesizer.
The «Voidophone» (plastic Organ with flanger) in 1980.
Drums from LP. Two Cassette Tape Recorders adding one instrument at a time. For extracting rhythm I also used two Cassette Tape Recorders recording a longer drum track. Recorded in Void studio Kråkdalen 12, Båsmoen in 1980.



2. Awakening the Mind 1981
As the journey unfolds, listeners experience Awakening the Mind, marking a significant moment of intellectual and spiritual clarity. The intricate rhythms and melodies symbolize the breaking free from mental constraints, encouraging individuals to grasp deeper truths about themselves and the universe.

Sverre Knut Johansen, Bass synth, synthesizers from the Roland PH-1000, Strings from the Vocoder Plus VP 330.
Odd Gunnar Moe; Drums.
Recorded in 1981 on Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer, Altec Lansing Model 19 Speakers, and AKG Microphones.



3. Present Sign 1982
The quest for understanding continues with Present Sign, which serves as an ode to the importance of mindfulness and awareness in everyday life. This track encapsulates the ability to recognize the signs and signals that guide our choices, underscoring the relevance of living fully in the moment.

Sverre Knut Johansen; Steinberger bass guitar, Mini Moog, strings from the Roland Vocoder Plus VP 330, Roland Jupiter 4 and guitars.
Paal Jøran Olsen; guitar solo
Hans Jørgen Moe; drums
Recorded in Svolvær in 1982 at Cirianis studio.
Mixed in 1993 by Gianni and a sound engineer.



4. A New Dawn 1981
With the arrival of A New Dawn, the music shifts to evoke feelings of hope and renewal. It signifies the potential for transformation, presenting a warm and uplifting atmosphere that reinforces the notion that every day offers new opportunities for change and growth.

Sverre Knut Johansen; bass guitar, guitars, noice effects and «Voidophone" (Plastic Organ with Flanger). Drums from Scully tape, Cirianis studio, Svolvær.
Recorded and mixed by Sverre K. Johansen at his parents house Kråkdalen 12 1981, Båsmoen.
Equipment: Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



5. Light Reflection 1979
Light Reflection delves deeper into introspection, where the sounds echo the essence of self-examination. Listeners are invited to confront their inner selves, illuminating both strengths and weaknesses, and embracing the light within to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

Sverre Knut Johansen: Vocals, Fuzz Bass Guitar, Synths, Organ, Guitars.
Percussion from LP. Two Cassette Tape Recorders adding one instrument at a time. For extracting rhythm I also used two Cassette Tape Recorders recording a longer drum track. Recorded in Void studio Kråkdalen 12, Båsmoen in 1979.



6. Mirrors of Perception 1981
As the narrative progresses, Mirrors of Perception explores how our interpretations of reality are shaped by our experiences. This track highlights the idea that our viewpoints are reflections influenced by our personal journeys, prompting a deeper inquiry into what is true and what is illusion.

Sverre plays the Technics Organ at Kråkdalen 12.
Guitars: Helge Jentoft
Recorded and mixed on: Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder and the Sound Techniques System 12 mixer in 1981.



7. Danger to Your health 1981
he mood shifts dramatically in Danger to Your Health, a commentary on the stresses and pressures of modern living. It captures the tension that arises from societal expectations and personal struggles, illustrating how these dangers can impact mental and emotional well-being.

Sverre Knut Johansen; Vocals, Fender Rhodes, strings from Roland Vocoder + and synthbass from
the Roland SH-1000 synthesizer.
Drums played by Odd Gunnar Moe.
Recorded by Sverre Knut Johansen in his Void Studio room at Kråkdalen 12 in 1981.
Lyrics by Ole Toft.



8. A Siren's Cry 1981
This tension is further explored through A Siren’s Cry, where the allure of temptation and distraction is personified. The haunting melodies serve as a powerful reminder of the seductive forces that can divert us from our true path, emphasizing the need for discernment amidst the chaos.

All instruments performed By Sverre Knut Johansen With layers of Vocals at Kråkdalen 12.
Recorded and mixed on: Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder and the Sound Techniques System 12 mixer in 1981.
Text By Ole Toft.



9. Chimeric Path 1981
Venturing into the surreal, Chimeric Path portrays a whimsical journey filled with illusions and dreams. Here, the music invites listeners to embrace creativity and imagination while also acknowledging the challenges that can arise from navigating a world full of contradictions.

Sverre Knut Johansen: Bass synth, synthesizers from the Roland PH-1000, Strings from the Vocoder Plus VP 330.
Recorded and mixed on: Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder and the Sound Techniques System 12 mixer in 1981.
Odd Gunnar Moe: Drums



10. Bring Me the Light 1983
As the exploration continues, Bring Me the Light manifests as a yearning for understanding and clarity. This track calls upon listeners to seek truth and enlightenment, resonating with those moments when revelation brings a sense of peace and direction.

Sverre using the Korg Poly 61 instrument and vocals.
Drums by Paal Jøran Olsen
Recorded in 1983 at Void studio, Lillemoen.
Equipment: Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



11. Present Paths 1981
In Present Paths, the focus returns to choices and the paths we forge in the present moment. The lively instrumentation illustrates the vibrancy of life’s possibilities, encouraging listeners to actively engage in shaping their futures through conscious decision-making.

Sverre K. Johansen Plays All Instruments Except The Drums
Drums by Paal Jøran Olsen
Recorded at Kråkdalen 12 on the Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



12. Circle of Trust 1982
The notion of community and trust is encapsulated in Circle of Trust, where connections with others become paramount. This track emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive relationships, reinforcing the idea that love and trust are essential ingredients for personal growth.

Sverre K. Johansen Plays Bass guitar and keyboards
Guitars By Paal Jøran Olsen
Drums By Odd Gunnar Moe
At Void studio, Lillemoen in 1982
Equipments: Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



13. Matters Moves To Mind 1981
As the album progresses, Matters Move to Mind explores the interplay between thought and action. The music here suggests that our innermost beliefs and ideas can manifest into reality, reflecting the profound connection between mind and matter.

Fender Rhodes, Bass Guitar, Clean Guitar and Vocals By Sverre Knut Johansen
Guitar By Helge Jentoft
Drums By Odd Gunnar Moe
Lyrics by Ole Toft
Recorded at Kråkdalen 12 on the Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder, Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



14. Fragments of Awareness 1981
Fragments of Awareness reveals the process of gaining knowledge. The music illustrates how understanding often comes in pieces, emphasizing that every small revelation contributes to the larger tapestry of our consciousness.

Sverre Plays Bass Guitar, Clean Guitars, Fender Rhodes and Low Bass Pedal.
Guitars And Drums By Odd Gunnar Moe
Recorded at Kråkdalen 12 in 1981 to Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder using Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



15. Moments of Grace 1981
The reflective nature of Moments of Grace highlights the beauty found in fleeting instances of clarity or peace. This track captures those precious times in life when everything aligns, inviting listeners to appreciate the richness of these experiences.

Sverre Knut Johansen; Guitars, bass guitars, Organ and Synths.
Drums Executed by Odd Gunnar Moe
Recorded at Kråkdalen 12 in 1981 to Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder using Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



16. Ephemeral Truths 1981
Ephemeral Truths dives into the transient nature of knowledge and beliefs, emphasizing that our understanding evolves over time. This track encourages a humble approach to truth, recognizing that what we hold to be true today may shift as we continue to learn and grow.

Sverre Knut Johansen is using Fender Rhodes and different Instruments.
Odd Gunnar Moe on Drums
Recorded at Kråkdalen 12 in 1981 to Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder using Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



17. Ebb and Flow 1981
The theme of life’s cyclical nature is artfully expressed in Ebb and Flow. This piece captures the rhythmic tensions and releases of existence, illustrating how ups and downs are integral to the human experience.

Sverre Knut Johansen used The Roland Bass Guitar Synthesizer GR33b
Drums By Odd Gunnar Moe
Recorded at Kråkdalen 12 in 1981 to Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder using Sound Techniques System 12 mixer in 1981.



18 Present Sign (mix2) 1982
The quest for understanding continues with Present Sign, which serves as an ode to the importance of mindfulness and awareness in everyday life. This track encapsulates the ability to recognize the signs and signals that guide our choices, underscoring the relevance of living fully in the moment.

Sverre Knut Johansen; Steinberger bass guitar, Mini Moog, strings from the Roland Vocoder Plus VP 330, Roland Jupiter 4 and guitars.
Paal Jøran Olsen; guitar solo
Hans Jørgen Moe; drums
Recorded in Svolvær in 1982 at Ciriani`s studio.
Mixed in Italy in the 90s on a-dat recorder by Gianni.



19. Essence of Existence 1981
This title invites contemplation on the fundamental nature of being and how the present moment encapsulates the essence of our reality. It suggests introspection into what it truly means to exist and how embracing the now can lead to deeper fulfillment and understanding of life’s purpose.

Sverre Knut Johansen, clean guitar and bass guitar
Odd Gunnar Moe; drums
Helge Jentoft on fuzz guitars
Recorded Kråkdalen 12 in Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder using Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



20. Celestial Alignment 1981
Drawing on cosmic imagery, "Celestial Alignment" symbolizes the interconnectedness of all things and how moments in time can converge to create significance. It represents a mystical approach to the present, suggesting that each instant is carefully aligned by universal forces, waiting to reveal its meaning.

Sverre Knut Johansen, Bass synth on The Roland SH-1000, voices, low pad effects on Fender Rhodes (tuning the Scully tape down an octave.
Paal Jøran Olsen on drums x 2.
Recorded Kråkdalen 12 in Scully 8-track 1" Tape Recorder using Sound Techniques System 12 mixer.



MUSIC BY SVERRE KNUT JOHANSEN

Composed arranged produced and recorded by Sverre Knut Johansen at void studio kråkdalen between 1979-1981 and void studio Lillemoen between 1981-1983

Except track 20. „Celestial Alignment” composed by
Sverre Knut Johansen & Paal Jøran Olsen

„Present Sign” Recorded by Gianni Ciriani at Ciriani´s studio in Svolvær in 1982


Recorded Edited and Mastered at MUSICSPACECENTER on Sep. - Oct. 2024 by Sverre Knut Johansen


Album Artwork by Michał Klimczak