Groovy Number from Great News

Word from across the pond in Norway is that Great News are one of the most anticipated acts to have come out of the country, and with their debut album on the horizon we thought we’d give you a little taste of why folks are so excited. They employ a nice wash of synths and drums, akin to some of the later Phoenix works, though what’s more impressive is their use of harmonies…particularly when the vocals burst through in the chorus. Look for their debut to drop in early October via Eget Selskap.

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New Music from Frokedal

Oslo’s Frokedal deserves your attention today. She’s just released a brand new double single, and it’s a pretty stunning two-song punch. The guitar work seems to intricate and personal, almost as if the strings are barely tickled to produce this enveloping sound. On “LTF,” I love the slight pitch raises in her voice, accompanied by some perfect accompanying bits that really make the song swell your senses. “Cracks” seems to have a more wistful bent, with a male counterpart aiding in the vocal performance. These songs seem huge, built for large audiences…though their sentiment seems quite personal. Join me in becoming a fan of Frokedal.

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How About One More From Slotface?

The weekend seems like a perfect time to enjoy another new song from Norway’s finest Slotface. We’ve already heard a couple of raucous songs from the new album, and this new track “Pitted” delivers yet again. I continue to dig the band’s throwback pop/punk vibe similar to Cruiserweight or even the recently reunited Rainer Maria. This is going to be one hell of a fun album.

Slotface will drop new album Try Not to Freak Out on September 16th via Propeller Recordings (pre-order).

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Slotface Announce Their Debut

Just by clicking the soundcloud stream, you can see that in a mere matter of days, Slotface has started to become a name that will surely be more than just mere buzz. The group delivered a raucous set during SXSW, which was rather surprising considering the Norway group’s young age. This is anthemic rock n’ roll of the best sort, and it carries with it a huge hook that nods to Patti Smith…showing that while they may be young, they know what’s good for you. Be ready to have a rocking good time when the band release Try Not to Freak Out in September.

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New Tunes from Klangstof

klangstofYou all know how I love my Scandinavian tunes, so when there’s something incredible popping up, I’ve got to give it some press. Seems like I might even be a bit behind, as this track from Klangstof has blown up overnight…deservedly so. Opening with softened pop is an easy way to catch my ear from the start, yet the song pushes forward building on the initial opening by filling in the space with playful, infectious samples. This tune works on multiple levels too, bursting with pop sensibility at moments, then reigning it in for a smoother croon that soothes the soul. The group has signed with Mind of Genius, so we should be hearing more about a nice full-length in the near future.

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The Megaphonic Thrift Makes Its Way to the USA

megaphonicIt’s been a rather big year for The Megaphonic Thrift, winning all sorts of awards in their homeland, Norway. But, there’s still the US market left to conquer, which should be easier now that the band has signed on with Old Flame Records to release Sun Stare Sound on this side of the pond. Their sound reminds me a lot of the tunes of early Stars, playing upon the dynamic interchange between male and female vocalists. I will say there’s a little more detail added to the songs too, giving a more artistic touch to theircraftsmanship. Look for the band to make waves when the album comes out later on this year.

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Sorry I Slept on Dylan Mondegreen

LIFE134_Cover480Shelflife Records is one of my favorite small labels, and with that, they’ve got an expected sound…but their signing of Dylan Mondegreen is a slight turn to the more casual side of pop music. Here you find the title track of his album Every Little Step, with Mondegreen playing the role of indiepop crooner. It’s relaxed and filled with simple melodies, which might draw similarities to Jens Lekman. I look forward to hearing the complete work from the Norwegeian, knowing I fully trust the label and their choices. Look for the LP on April 8th.

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Have You Heard of Death by Unga Bunga

deathbyungabungaIn the world of band names, I’ll have to say that Death by Unga Bunga falls on the stranger side of things (though clearly not the strangest).  Still, their music isn’t too far out there, instead nestling itself alongside today’s purveyors of power pop. It’s got a hint of garage influence and brattiness, though there’s still this undeniable lineage to early 90s alternative pop music. Think of listening to Superdrag record hits in your neighbor’s garage; it sounds like a recipe for success if you ask me. The band’s debut Tell Me Why EP will be released on October 2nd, so keep an eye and ear out for the Unga Bunga.

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Nice To Meet You, Kid Astray

kid astray image by akam1k3You all know by now that we are full on suckers for a great pop song. I was trolling about the internets and came across Norway’s Kid Astray. Scandinavia is churning out some hits these days and this hits all the marks for indie pop bliss – plinking synth, great bass line, lovely hooks, harmonies and the break and build. “Diver” plays as Tear For Fears meets Wild Cub. I was sad to see we missed them when they came for SxSW in 2014. Bummer. The album Home Before The Dark is out June 15.

Soundtracking your holiday weekend, people…

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