Violet Scene

The '90s band Violet Scene looked to the '80s for inspiration. Formed in 1995 in Oslo, Norway, Violet Scene championed the Cure's shimmering, interlocking guitars, the Smiths' sunny jangle, and the House of Love's brooding English rock. Featuring brothers Kjetil Bergseth (vocals, guitars, keyboards) and Jo Espen Bergseth (electric bass), Ralf Gundersen Lofstad (guitars, vocals), Asbjorn Risoy (guitars), and Arvid Nordstrand (drums), Violet Scene recorded their debut album Pieces in 1996, releasing it on their own label. The LP was critically acclaimed, and Violet Scene became the opening act for the Bluetones. However, there were personal differences between Lofstad and Risoy, and Risoy left the band just when the album hit the shelves. Despite minimal promotion, Pieces sold well. Violet Scene continued as a four-piece until Thor Mosaker (keyboards) joined the group in 1998. Mosaker had played with Jo Espen Bergseth and Kjetil Bergseth before in a band called Chrystine. In 1999, Violet Scene released EP, an EP with three live tracks ("Flaming Sun," "Restore My Soul," and "Self Defense") and a remix of "Flaming Sun." The group then headlined concerts throughout Norway. Violet Scene broke up in 2000. Lofstad, Jo Espen Bergseth, and Nordstrand then reunited in Still Doing Sky with Fredrik Rodsaether. ~ Michael Sutton, All Music Guide