Katzenjammer

Katzenjammer is a Norwegian band from Oslo, formed in 2005. The group consists of Marianne Sveen, Anne Marit Bergheim, Sol Heilo and Turid Jørgensen Honerud. It works with a mix of folk, folk rock and other styles, and is known for its multi-instrumental approach.

Much of the band’s material is written by Mats Rybø, who is a friend of the group, although the members also write some of their own songs. Katzenjammer is recognised for its custom balalaika bass, painted with a cat’s face, which reflects the meaning of the band’s name: in German, “Katzenjammer” means “cat’s wail” and can also refer to a hangover.

The band first gains wider attention through NRK’s Urørt project, which showcases new artists, and also appears on the Norwegian talent show Kjempesjansen. It also performs at Norwegian Wood in 2007 as part of the Underwood line-up. Katzenjammer then builds a reputation through live shows, support slots for other Norwegian acts including Kaizers Orchestra, and various television appearances.

Its early single “A Bar in Amsterdam” becomes an underground hit, and the band reaches the finals of Urørt’s Artist of the Year awards. Its debut studio album, Le Pop, is released in 2008, with an international version appearing the following year with a changed track listing. The second album, A Kiss Before You Go, follows, with the singles “When the Laughter’s Gone” and “I Will Dance (When I Walk Away)” issued in advance. Marianne Sveen leaves the band in 2016, while the group continues with the remaining members.