TLOBF travelled to the land of delicious pastries and beautiful people and spoke to a handful of its most important music representatives and local industry gurus in order to find out how the scene has been evolving over the years and what the future might hold for it.
Scandinavia
Robyn – Body Talk (Part 1)
Robyn Carlsson continues to be as adventurous, original and personal as anyone working in pop music today. ‘Body Talk’ pairs those winning qualities with an album’s worth of pretty melodies. In this singles-dominated era more than ever, that makes it an album worth owning.
TLOBF Interview :: The Tallest Man On Earth
The Tallest Man On Earth reveals that Bob Dylan is actually his dad. Or perhaps not. Kristian Matsson shares enough to give his fans a glimpse into what inspires him, while still maintaining the mystique that has intrigued us all from the beginning.
FM Belfast – How To Make Friends
With a song sounding much like the automated voicemail lady having some dirty-assed phone sex, Gina Louise investigates the latest electro act to emerge from Iceland.
Lindstrøm & Christabelle – Real Life Is No Cool
Lindstrøm shows off his deft virtuosity throughout the proceedings, but reigns his vision in enough to keep these songs taut and lively, which results in a very smooth, stylish record.
Kommun – Kommun
An album with 12 songs, each lasting under four minutes. That’s what a decent Swedish pop album is made of. But even if the music of Kommun is pop, the band doesn’t seem to be that popular yet…
Joensuu 1685 deliver limited white vinyl 7″ of The Boss’ “I’m On Fire”
Cooler-than-thou London independent Fitzrovian Phonographic are releasing a version of “I’m On Fire” on limited edition 7″ white vinyl on Monday. Essential stuff!
TLOBF Interview :: The Mary Onettes
TLOBF delivers some choice questions to Swedish band The Mary Onettes about their latest album “Islands”.
[Download] Sambassadeur ‘Days’
Self proclaimed as “the world’s finest purveyor of indie pop” Labrador Records rarely take a step wrong in their releases. This newie from Gothenburg based Sambassadeur is no exception.
Ja Ja Ja! TLOBF.COM chosen as Media Partners for new Nordic Club night…
Huw Stephens curates the Ja Ja Ja launch party. Kira Kira, I Was A King, Francis and TV Off all confirmed to play. The Line Of Best Fit chosen as official media partner.
[Download] Summer Camp: ‘I Only Have Eyes For You’
Hopelessly romantic and full of wide eyed wonder – this is SUMMER CAMP folks. Remember their name. Download ‘I Only Have Eyes For You’ inside.
The Raveonettes – In and Out of Control
The Raveonettes offer up another great, if somewhat predictable, slice of retro bubblegum pop with all the pedal effects you could wish for. Lauren Down reviews.
Say hello to Bodebrixen: free mp3 and debut London show next week
A quick heads up about a rather wonderful new Danish band about to make their debut UK appearance next week. An mp3 of the track ‘Deadman’ is available inside!
First Aid Kit – Drunken Trees
Sweden’s First Aid Kit have youth on their side, but what else have they in their musical box of tricks?
TLOBF Interview :: Hafdis Huld
John Brainlove curls up on the chaise lounge with Icelandic chanteuse Hafdis Huld to catch up on some small talk before a recent show at London’s Slaughtered Lamb.
Sad Day For Puppets – Unknown Colors
Catchy pop couched in distorted guitar and thick bass, Sad Day For Puppets know what to steal and how to drop what they’re juggling. They’re a Swedish indie pop menace. They must not be allowed to stop!
