The Not-so-silent Jens Lekman

Man crush--this might be the best way to explain my adoration for Mr. Jens Lekman's music. I admit it, but at least let me elaborate why you should have one too for Sweden's best musical export. Lekman's third release Night Falls Over Kortedala is a dreamy Scandinavian collection of songs that wakes you up, delights and entertains, and carefully tucks you in at night. It's coherent, profound, comical, and intriguing.

From the lyrical component of Night Falls, Lekman conveys his sage-like wisdom about life and relationships with the utmost frankness and comedy. He possesses the story-telling ability of a Bob Dylan, as seen by the doo-wop big band "Postcard to Nina" which has him dazzling the listener about an awkward (true) visit to a friend's house (for explanation, check out this video). Or have a listen to "Your Arms Around Me", a charming ode to a woman who surprises him while he's cutting avocados and cuts his finger--he goes to the hospital with her only to have her "arms around [him]". It's Lekman's ability to make a point without being preachy that makes him the esteemed lyricist that he is.

But from a musical perspective, there is nothing lacking here either. "Sipping on the Sweet Nectar" is a discopop delight that meshes beautifully with the funked-out "Kanske Ar Jag Kar I Dig" that breaks into a full out chorus of falsetto from Lekman. There's certainly a good deal of growth on this album from Oh You're So Silent, Jens, and it has resulted in an album that is incredibly consistent and enjoyable. It seems that Sir Lekman is not so silent anymore.

Go and get a copy of Night Falls Over Kortedala (already out in Europe, due out Oct. 9 in US)
Listen to "Postcard to Nina" (5/5)!!!!!!!
Listen to "Your Arms Around Me" (5/5)!!!!!!

Loney, Dear

Lighten up, kids, grab a banana. Today, we're talking about DIY (that's Do it Yourself for all those abbreviation impaired) artist Emil Svanängen (I love the Swedes!) who goes by the name of Loney, Dear. Svanangen works out of a "very modest home studio setup, using a minidisc mic and a set of headphones to avoid disturbing his neighbors" (from his myspace). The result is a Postal Service-lite, featuring songs that range from achingly sweet to the folk-anthem-like arrangements. In his most recent release, Loney, Noir, Emil blends a delicate, fragile voice that manages to just float over the melodies. Upon multiple listens, I am struck by the lack of abrasiveness in the album--not to be mistaken for overproduction (it's certainly more on the lo-fi side). The songs have this easy-like-Sunday-morning feel to them, much like those of the Postal Service, but there's also a certain workmen's quality to them. This is what music would sound like if a coal miner and a corporate secretary got together and hatched an album.

If that doesn't do it for you, then maybe you just need to check out a few of the tracks. My personal favorite "I Am John" begins as a cute na-na-na lullaby that develops into a full-fledge electrofolk song that just seeps into the cavities of your body (maybe too much imagery there). And when the horns delicately come in, it's just magnificent. Have a listen to "And I Won't Cause Anything At All" and you'll understand why I'm comparing him to TPS. [side note: Speaking of which, aren't those two due out for a new album soon? (Foreshadowing: Dntel)]

As you know, I'm encouraging a purchase here: Loney, Noir
Listen to "I Am John" (4.8/5)
Listen to "And I Won't Cause Anything At All" (4.4/5)