Friday, June 1st, 2007
Psychedelic Swedish Rockers Dungen deliver a satisfying progressive-pop record in Tio Bitar. I have no idea what the title means (or any lyrics on the album), but sometimes all you need is the universal language of music to do the talking. This record is an enjoyable listen, and somewhat more focused and accessible than last year’s Ta Det Lugnt. The album’s standout track is the song, “Svart Är Himlen” which builds from a hard, breathy flute that would make Herbie Man jealous and over-driven rhythm guitar accents into a beautiful soaring piano chorus. Sweden Rocks.
Dungen - Gör Det Nu
Dungen - Du Ska Inte Tro Att Det Ordan
Dungen - Svart Är Himlen
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Thursday, May 31st, 2007
With the release of “So Jealous” in 2006, Canadian sister-duo Tegan and Sara quickly became one of my favorite bands. Cuteness aside (Sara, call me!), this Canadian duo has earned praise from critics and artists alike. Suffice to say, their song “Walking With A Ghost” was covered by Jack White of The White Stripes/Raconteurs fame. With word of their upcoming album “The Con” slated for July 24th release, I had been regularly trolling the various torrent sites for an early leak. Last week, I struck gold. Man, I love the internet.
Unlike the previous album, which was filled with hook-laden uptempo gems, their new album has a slightly darker and more dense sound. Upon first impressions, I was somewhat disappointed as the songs were not as immediately accessible as it’s predecessor. However upon repeated listens, the album’s complex and delicate melodies unfolded and has been on constant loop ever since. Songs like title track “The Con” and “Back in Your Head” capture the duo’s signature melancholy-pop sound without missing a beat. Other tracks find the girls heading in a new direction, utilizing more electronic elements and minor key-signatures to balance their catchy pop sensibilities with a more mature and refined sound.
For those who already know and love this band, the title might be somewhat misleading. For new fans, the only “con” might be that the fact that they prematurely disregarded theses talented sister’s as candy. Their candy is more like Sour Patch Kids.
Tegan and Sara - “The Con”
Tegan and Sara - “Back In Your head”
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