Herman Dune’s ‘Odysseus’: Embark on a Beautiful Folk Music Journey

Following the three-volume acoustic anthology The Portable Herman Dune, its creative mastermind returns with Odysseús, an album where the clarity of the melodies enhances their immediacy. The title track, for instance, was conceived while David-Ivar was in “forced exile” in Canada during the pandemic, caring for his ailing partner, and reading Emily Wilson’s “fabulous” translation of The Odyssey.

“The album evolved amidst various turmoils: the sudden death of a very close friend, family disasters, a pain growing inside me that I couldn’t understand, and the risk of losing a wonderful relationship,” he shares. “But life gave me a second chance, and these songs reflect that saga, both physical and internal.”

Recording in Live Takes

Alongside the talented Mexican composer and producer David Garza, and a group of musicians who have worked with Fiona Apple, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sonic Youth, Odysseús was recorded live at Herman Dune’s studio in Los Angeles. Serving as guardian angels were always Leonard Cohen, whose grave David-Ivar visited daily during his lockdown in Montreal, Townes Van Zandt, Lucinda Williams, and John Prine, among others.

We are moved by the rustic simplicity of Tune Out, energized by the euphoria of 369 (The Sun Gon’ Shine), which was born on his wedding day, and by the twisted prayer that concludes the album, Viduy. This shows that harmony must be as humble as it is demanding.

Odysseús (BB*Island). Release on June 13. Live performance at Café de la Danse, Paris, on November 3.