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"Merge" is Roland Karlson's 5th album, composed between 2022 and 2023. This collection of tracks was profoundly influenced by significant global events, marking the end of the COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of the Russian-Ukraine conflict. The harmonic movements within the album are predominantly generated by algorithms that Karlson developed during this period. These algorithms were fine-tuned for harmonic smoothness and aimed to utilize a wide array of different notes, inspired by Joseph Schillinger’s systematic approach to composition and the transformational theories of Neo-Riemannian analysis.

Karlson also incorporated elements of serialism and innovatively used his voice as an instrumental layer, striving to imbue the album with a sense of optimism amidst turmoil. Furthermore, Karlson explored the concept of dynamic scales, a novel approach he self-developed, drawing on the intricate relationships between musical notes to create evolving musical landscapes. This technique reflects a blend of Schillinger’s methodical composition principles and the harmonic transformations found in Neo-Riemannian theory, pushing the boundaries of traditional scale usage.

The album seeks to derive meaning and solace from the chaos of the world, offering listeners a sonic journey through the complexities of recent historical events and their emotional aftermath.

Roland Karlsson was a Swedish sprint canoeist who competed in the late 1930s. He won a bronze medal in the K-4 1000 m event at the 1938 ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships in Vaxholm.