IT'S A TRAP! Scandinavian Music Journal

Smile - Clean gloves, dirty hands (video)

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 14:41:41 -0700

I forget who exactly is in Smile, but I'm pretty sure it's folks from Caesars and Peter Bjorn and John or something along those lines. Anyhow, apparently this is label collective Ingrid's first-ever music video. File under: friend rock.

Kning Disk presents Paddan och Hunden

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:06:18 -0700

On May 30 esteemed Swedish experimental label Kning Disk will release the new LP "Paddan och hunden", a collaboration album featuring Joakim Åhlund (Caesars, Teddybears, Les Big Byrd, etc.) and visual artist Jockum Nordström. Full details: http://www.kningdisk.com/index_kd091.htm

The Asteroid Galaxy Tour - Heart attack (video)

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:44:11 -0800

Here is the video for The Asteroids Galaxy Tour's new single "Heart attack" which has a heavy Caesars-like refrain, though I can't place exactly what song it reminds me of. Anyhow, look for the Danish pop act to release their new album "Out of frequency" in the US on January 31, Europe on February 24.

Les Big Byrd - Streams of unconsciousness (video)

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:29:45 -0700

Could it be that Les Big Byrd (nee Big Byrd), the all-star Krautrock-ish sideproject of Jocke and Nino from Caesars with Frans of Fireside, is reactivated? I haven't heard any news, but there's a slew of new video clips on Vimeo posted under Patrik Instedt's account.

Interview: John Eriksson (Peter Bjorn and John)

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 11:52:34 -0700

The "band with the whistling song" is still here. In fact they have been around for ten years now, and were formed long before "Young folks" was released. After spending time with other projects - Björn Yttling has been producing Lykke Li, and Peter Morén recorded his solo album - and after they released "Seaside rock" last September, a more difficult, instrumental record, only available on vinyl and as a digital download, Peter Bjorn and John are back with a "proper" full release. Their new album is called "Living thing" and is being released this week (March 30th/31st). It's a Trap! had a very friendly chat with drummer/percussionist & vocalist John Eriksson.

You guys are celebrating ten years together. Can you share a few of the best moments during this time?

It's really funny to think back ten years ago. Back at the time we used to have other jobs. I remember one time we did these cuttings of all articles that were written about us in the press, in order to give them out to our friends. We stole paper from our jobs, used their copying machines and did it! [Laughs]

Did you ever want to become big?

We just wanted to make fantastic pop music, but of course you want people and your families to listen to it.

Where you studying at the time?

Peter was doing film studies and afterwards was studying in order to become a librarian. Björn was working within schools and was also playing keyboards in other Swedish bands, The Soundtrack of Our Lives and Caesars. I was a classical percussionist. I used to be in a symphonic orchestra and then in a percussion ensemble, full-time for 7-8 years. It happened a lot. Then we did this third record, "Writer's block". We said OK, let's make this record, because the first two did OK in Sweden and Norway, but nothing special. We said, let's give it another try. And then everything happened of course. But one of the best things I remember in these ten years, it was actually when we started working on this fifth record. We did the last gig of our big tour in January 2008 and we were staying in L.A. for four days and started working on this album in a garage. And that was the best feeling, something really special between the three of us. We made five songs each and there was this sense of togetherness and at the same time it felt so good and so new.

In what way is your last album different to the previous ones?

If "Writer's block" was "Stockholm city in the summer" and if "Seaside rock" is like "going to the north in the autumn to plant potatoes"; "Living thing" is like going even further: to the North Pole with lots of ice and snow. [Laughs]

"Living thing" is slightly darker, even the artwork.

It's true that it's darker, but exactly like the winter, it's quite refreshing and quite mysterious.

Was this a conscious decision?

I think that with every record there are less and less apparent details in the sound. It all becomes very minimalistic and this creates lots of space in the music, there is lots of room for things like echoes etc. Then it becomes a bit more mysterious.

Why did you release a difficult, instrumental album like "Seaside rock"? Is it maybe in protest of "Young folks"?

We've been talking about it. We always wanted to do new music, and next time it might be a thrash metal album, or funk. [Laughs] And therefore it was a good timing to do such an album.

Is it difficult is to get over the massive success of "Young folks"?

No, I don't think so, and it's going to become more and more easy the more records we do. "Young folks" is like the first time you have Italian food. It's good but you want to try more. It's the best thing that can happen to a band like us, to have something that people recognise. Because if we didn't have that, then people would never want to listen to, for example, our instrumental stuff.

What's the idea behind the video of "Lay it down"? It's hilarious.

I actually wrote the script. I was in South America travelling at the time and then I was in Cuba and somewhere I saw a mask. I had decided that in the video there should be Gene Simmons and Bob Dylan masks and all these celebrities, but someone said, you can't use their faces, they're going to sue you, why don't you use your own faces? And then a friend of ours, Sandra Malmgren, did the masks and then we got this high school dance group.

Miami Vice composer Jan Hammer, did a remix of "Nothing to worry about". How did you come up with him?

It felt kind of natural. We listened to a lot of 80's stuff and we were big fans of Miami Vice. It was funny, because he had never done a remix before. But it's fantastic!

You've been touring a lot. What are the differences between doing gigs in Europe and the US, if there are any?

Jet lag and different kind of food. [Laughs] Actually I think that the biggest difference is between capital cities and smaller towns. It's kind of similar, Paris, London and New York. But then, you go out to smaller places, in the US or elsewhere, people are different. Big city people want to come across as cool, whereas people from smaller places are friendlier.

Why would somebody choose to live in Stockholm rather than anywhere else?

It is easy to fall in love with the city. It's so beautiful. There is a lot of nature in the surroundings.

Is there a Swedish artist who is not widely well-known outside Sweden and you think people should check out?

I have to say Holiday For Strings, it's actually a band that I play sometimes with, and it's a good band. [Laughs] Then Jenny Wilson and First Floor Power. I listen to a lot of Fever Ray at this moment too.

Do you guys all listen to the same stuff?

Peter likes older stuff; at the moment actually more soul and funk. Björn had a period of listening to electronic music. I've been into alternative hip-hop, but at the moment I am trying to find obscure music from Hawaii, Tibet or Japan. You want to get surprised.

You dropped the commas from your name. Why?

For us it's more of a graphic thing, it looks better.

Why your names as band name? Is there a 60's reference to, say, Simon & Garfunkel?

Yeah. At the time when we formed the band, everybody was calling themselves "The Black Rockers", "The Spiders" or something. [Laughs] We thought this name could be more interesting and then we can do the music we want to, it's more personal, and in addition the three of us are equal members.

How do you see Peter Bjorn and John in 10 years time? Have you got any particular plans?

I think now after ten years it's a good time to draw a line and then keep on going for another ten years. I think doing ten albums in twenty years would be the perfect way. And maybe then, this art project would be over! [Laughs] And maybe if we run out of money, we only play in Irish Pubs! [Laughs]

Words and picture by Vasilis Panagiotopoulos

Big Byrd (Caesars, Fireside) to release 7" on Startracks

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:54:06 -0800

Big Byrd, the Stockholm-based supergroup featuring Jocke Åhlund (Teddybears, Caesars), Nino Keller (Caesars), Frans Johansson (Fireside) and Carl Zim Lundell, have a new 7" single coming out on Startracks on April 2 featuring the track "Anna Belle". Preview at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bigbirdtheband

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 13:39:18 -0700

PopMatters on the new Caesars album "Strawberry weed": http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/61931/caesars-strawberry-weed/

King of All the Animals Paper beats rock Pyramid

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0700

I've always held a soft spot in my heart for Tigerbombs, mostly as a damned fun summer band, though Pepe Trouble's solo act took me by surprise: not only in solidifying his songwriting amongst the strongest summer-pop work out there, but also by branching out his pop craftsmanship along more serious avenues. With a truly all-star Scandinavian cast, including Astrid Swan, Samae Koskinen (of Sister Flo), and Sweden's The Mopeds, amongst many, many others, King of All the Animals is a talented collection of tried and tested musicians, and "Paper beats rocks" is even further testament to this statement. Instead of the Caesars (Palace)-like tact that Tigerbombs adopt -- chock full of rock organ hooks and fills -- King of All the Animals is a much more typically Scandinavian pop group. "1000-mile-heartache" feels like it fell straight out of a 80s coming-of-age film, a Modern English vibe wrapped around an almost Shout Out Louds-type delivery. "Everything burns red" bristles with perfect guitar hooks and the layered, saturated approach that Moonbabies have perfected. There are a few stumbles on the record, all of which are easily forgiven (and almost more easily forgotten as one become more familiar with the album), and none of which even mildly threaten to derail this proficient and entertaining work. Listen to "The Cologne beat" and you'll know exactly where all my excitement for "Paper beats rock" comes from.

Caesars Strawberry weed Dolores/EMI

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700

When "Strawberry weed" is played in my iPod, the first association that comes to my mind is: Coldplay. This might be outlandish, but it's true. If we throw in some Beach Boys, Beatles and Rolling Stones, then we have a recognizable sound, describing Caesars' new album. I expected to hear something more rebellious and edgy, going more back to their hit "Jerk it out", but didn't. This isn't something you want to scream from the top of your lungs to at festivals, this is something more mature, and something you might want to listen to at a sunny day at the beach. The album consists of 24 songs, it's a double album and frankly, I ain't praising that, even if Ebbot Lundberg deserves admiration, doing a fine job producing this. My 'too much feeling' means that Caesars is that kind of band that can bore you, therefore one good, crammed CD could have been enough. However, in this case, "Strawberry weed", "Fools parade", "You nailed me" and "Boo boo goo goo", does it for me; they are catchy and, should we say, MTV material. But I still wonder why you want to throw in something such as "Solina": a 2:59 long, acoustic song, without César Vidal's easily broken but beautiful voice? It's a small pause in the middle of it all that gives me the feeling of a computer game. To the positive parts, the overall impression is that it makes me darn pleased that the band gives us something new, these dudes knows how to do it despite my words above, and let's face it, Caesars are Caesars and as in a salad, you will always get that little extra parmigiana that gives you a tasty experience and some energetic fuel in the end. "Boo boo goo goo" is a perfect example of that. In the end, after hours of listening somehow this poppy, indie sound gives me almost the same feeling as the beach boys, and it makes me say; Strawberry Field... you nailed me!

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:52:34 -0700

Caesars' most recent album "Strawberry weed" will finally get a US release on August 19 via Astralworks.

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 11:05:57 -0700

Here is the It's a Trap! Last.fm listening group top 10 albums of the week:

01. Caesars – Strawberry Weed
02. The Mary Onettes – The Mary Onettes
03. Håkan Hellström – Ett kolikbarns bekännelser
04. Okkervil River – The Stage Names
05. Jens Lekman – When I Said I Wanted to Be Your Dog
06. Suburban Kids With Biblical Names – #3
07. Kings of Convenience – Quiet Is the New Loud
08. Hot Chip – The Warning
09. Death Cab for Cutie – Plans
10. Kings of Convenience – Riot on an Empty Street

Do you listen to music on your computer or with an iPod? Please join us and make your playlist count! Go here to learn more: http://www.last.fm/help/

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 11:51:57 -0700

This week's It's a Trap! Last.fm listening group top 10 tracks of the week:

01. Hot Chip – Ready for the floor
02. Gentle Touch – Once you used to
03. Caesars – Boo boo goo goo
04. Familjen – Det snurrar i min skalle
05. Markus Krunegård – Jag är en vampyr
06. Vampire Weekend – Oxford Comma
07. Caesars – Strawberry weed
08. Vampire Weekend – A-Punk
09. Lykke Li – I'm good, I'm gone
10. Shout Out Louds – Tonight I have to leave it

Do you listen to music on your computer or with an iPod? Please join us and make your playlist count! Go here to learn more: http://www.last.fm/help/

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:32:56 -0700

Check out a video of Caesars visiting a Swedish retirement home to promote their new record: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=30012929 (in Swedish, but subtitled)

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:36:23 -0700

This week's top 20 Swedish album chart:

01. Sofia Karlsson - Visor från vinden
02. Tomas Andersson Wij - En sommar på speed
03. Jill Johnson - Music Row
04. Carola - Främling 25 år
05. Neverstore - Heroes wanted
06. The Cardigans - Best of
07. Fernandoz - Anders & Git - En helt ny dag
08. Caesars - Strawberry weed
09. Kikki Danielsson - Kikkis bästa
10. Lykke Li - Youth novels
11. Takida - Bury the lies
12. Amy Diamond - Music in motion
14. Kent - Tillbaka till samtiden
15. Lars Winnerbäck - Daugava
16. Marie Picasso - The secret
17. Sahara Hotnights - What if leaving is a loving thing
18. Säkert! - Säkert!
19. Sara Isaksson & Anders Widmark - Pool of happiness
20. Björn Skifs - I2I

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 05:53:44 -0700

This week's It's a Trap! Last.fm listening group top 10 artists of the week:

01. Radiohead
02. Jens Lekman
03. Håkan Hellström
04. Lykke Li
05. Band of Horses
06. The Cure
07. Hot Chip
08. Shout Out Louds
09. Caesars
10. Kent

Do you listen to music on your computer or with an iPod? Please join us and make your playlist count! Go here to learn more: http://www.last.fm/help/

MP3: Caesars - Strawberry weed

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 11:35:52 -0800

Hanzan speaks the truth. Not just with his overall assessment of the new Caesars album "Strawberry weed", but also his assertion that the title track is a summer hit waiting to happen. Lead single "Boo boo goo goo" is a fine tune and it's growing on me more and more every day, but it does not compete with this at all. "Strawberry weed" is pure laid-back bliss. A perfect second single, really. And as far as I'm concerned, summer cannot come soon enough! Give me sunshine and sweet, sweet music!

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 22:53:58 -0800

Here's the playlist for this week's radio show:

01. Tiger Lou - The loyal
02. TALK 1
03. Karin Ström - Silent night
04. Saft - I do not smoke
05. Caesars - Strawberry weed
06. TALK 2
07. Meshuggah - Bleed
08. Pacific! - Number one
09. Pascal - Längtar efter dig
10. TALK 3
11. Logh - An alliance of hearts
12. Benea Reach - New waters
13. Astrid Swan - Sea/e life
14. TALK 4
15. Lykke Li - I'm good, I'm gone
16. The High Hats - Bitterswede
17. Lis Er Stille - Lorelei
18. TALK 5
19. The Tough Alliance - Leg 7
20. Cosmic Overdose - En av dom
21. The Second Band - The piano machine
22. TALK 6
23. De Stijl - Date times
24. Death Breath - Death breath
25. Montys Loco - Farewell Mr Happy
26. Randy - Freedom song
27. TALK 7
28. Jonas Knutsson & Horn Please! - Snygg Olles polska
29. Moonbabies - Forever changes everything now
30. Kristofer Åström - Conjure me
31. TALK 8
32. Ljudbilden & Piloten - Wedding
33. Anna Leong - Guillotine
34. Convoj - RAMJAC
35. TALK 9
36. Tsukimono - Gloomy Sunday

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:58:08 -0800

The video for the new Caesars single "Boo boo goo goo" is on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lD3WatP_4UE

MP3: Caesars Palace - From the bughouse

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:34:43 -0800

Between the weakness of previous record "Paper tigers" and the total media saturation of "Jerk it out", it's easy to forget just how good those old Caesars Palace/Caesars albums really are. Any good will I had left was sapped out. So with a promising new double-album on the way (the half-dozen or so tracks from "Strawberry weed" that I've heard so far are all surprisingly strong), I figure it's time to pay 'em a visit and hopefully rekindle what we once had. It's actually quite easy as their distinctive garage-pop sound, when done right, goes down effortlessly. Yes, even the ubiquitous "Jerk it out" remains a great song even after a million-and-a-half listens. But I'll be damned if I post that one as they've got stacks of other songs in their back-catalogue with just as much hit potential. "From the bughouse" off of 2000's "Cherry kicks" has it all: the trademark vintage organ tones, a revved-up tempo, an irresistible chorus. I'd have a hard time trusting anyone who says they don't like this.

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:06:34 -0800

Håkan Hellström's new Jocke Åhlund-produced (Caesars, Teddybears Sthlm) album is confirmed for release on March 26. It was also announced that Håkan will play Way Out West in August, an occurrence his publicist compares to "Oasis performing in Manchester."

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 12:03:37 -0800

The new Caesars double-album "Strawberry weed" will be released on March 5. Look for the new single "Boo boo goo goo" soon. In semi-related news, look for a new 7" from Caesars/Peter Bjorn and John sideproject Smile on Dolores. Hear samples of that one here: http://www.myspace.com/cleangloves

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0700

The video for the new Caesars single "No tomorrow" is up on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVxYknKzE_I
It was directed by Andreas Nilsson (The Knife, José González, etc.) so you know it's worth watching.

Infinite Mass Masters of the universe Infinit Mass

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0700

After 15 years in the game, Infinite Mass released their first compilation. It's a massive affair, with one disc dedicated to the hits and one to rarer out-of-print cuts. Arranged next to each other, the jumps between electro-g-funky "Mah boyz" and Caesars-sounding "No. 1 swartskalle" can be jarring, but it shows both the musical growth and will to experiment that has been Infinite Mass' guiding star. With surprising instrumentation/samples, a sometimes lethal beat and key focus on having a good time, it may not be the most thought provoking or challenging music, but the condensed highlights can still throw a pretty decent party. The second disc falters quite often, but still contains gems like a blaxploitationish take on Kiss "Black diamond" or the twisting, stuttering "Hello", which pushes hip-hop's endless fascination with "Scarface" so far over the top that I doubt it ever will be outdone.

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700

The new Caesars single "No tomorrow" will be out on July 20.

MP3: Tigerbombs - Shaking the tree

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Tigerbombs might come off like a Finnish carbon-copy of Caesars/Caesars Palace, but they sure one-upped those dudes by enlisting Klas Åhlund's ex-wife Paola to help out on their new record "Thing that go boom". Otherwise, the sound is more or less the same: revved-up organ-driven garage rock with a definite retro/lo-fi vibe. It's fun stuff, perfect for the onset of summer. Original? Naah, but neither were Caesars either.

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0800

In other Dolores news, Jocke and Nino from Caesars have a new band with Frans from Fireside called Big Bird and they will be releasing their debut EP on the label in March. As for Caesars, they are working on a new record with Björn Olsson for release this fall.

MP3: The Soundtrack of Our Lives - Nevermore

Fri, 29 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Heed my battle cry: "Four more years! Four more years!" Yes, It's a trap! turns four tomorrow, thus making me somewhat of an elder statesman on the music blog scene. As I touched on last Friday, I've come a long way from my humble beginnings of sporadic updates and limited content to daily mp3s and news posts. One band that always got me excited back in those early days was The Soundtrack of Our Lives. It often seems like only the most mediocre acts become successful American imports, TSOOL was definitely an exception. They won over crowds not just with great music on record, but also by touring repeatedly and putting on an amazing show every time. The crowd was on the light side the first time they came through SF, but grew substantially on every return trip, a tribute to their effectiveness. Not only that, but they also brought over some great opening acts too: Caesars and Silverbullit. Not that many people cared besides me and a few expats, but I certainly appreciate the effort. Anyhow, one of my favorite TSOOL songs has always been "Nevermore" from 2001's "Behind the music". I just love that riff so much and the solo break is killer, especially when done live. So how about a new record guys?

Tigerbombs Crazy kids never learn Johanna Kustannus/Pyramid

Wed, 30 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Avi described this band as "like the Caesars, only Finnish" and frankly I'm having a hard time coming up with a better snappy summary of this duo's second full length release. Like their aforenamed Swedish brethren, Tigerbombs (not to be confused with British band Tigerbomb) play short catchy pop songs influenced by 60s garage rock, heavy on the organs. They describe the record as more like adolescence than adulthood, and it does brim with teenage punk energy (think Buzzcocks or Undertones). It's an innocuous enough record - fun, catchy, energetic -- but ultimately the songs do a better job of suggesting the pop classics they could be than they do of achieving that perfection. Still, it's a nice release, and I wouldn't be surprised if they sharpened up their song writing and put out a brilliant fourth or fifth record one of these days.

MP3: Teddybears - Hey boy

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0700

No doubt you've probably heard the Teddybears single "Cobrastyle" by now. It's exactly the kind of ubiquitous pop hit that ends up on infinite repeat and follows you everywhere you go. Kinda like the Caesars' "Jerk it out" was a few years back, and oh man did they ever play that one to death. It's fitting that both songs are from the same mind, Mr. Jocke Åhlund. Another parallel: both bands' US debuts are not actual albums, but collections of various tracks. Not quite what I'd call 'greatest hits', but along those same lines. It's no surprise then that both suffer the same problem that often plagues such collections - the tracklist has no flow. However, let's be fair: Teddybears' US debut "Soft machine" is probably not intended to be the sort of record you sit down to listen to from beginning to end. It's tailormade for DJ sets and mixtapes. All of the tracks are great individually, but they don't form a cohesive package when thrown together. It's party music. It won't change your life, but it'll get the dancefloor moving. Ain't nothing wrong that as long as you know what you're getting into. Instead of posting something from "Soft machine" I'm going back to 2004's "Fresh". I can see why "Hey boy" was left off the US release - it's just a bit too similar to "Cobrastyle" with its wordless refrains and bouncy beat. That doesn't make it bad, just redundant. Nevermind that both tracks appear on "Fresh". If the rest of the album followed the same formula, I'd be bummed, but when there's two tracks that are both this hot, you'd be hard-pressed to find fault.

MP3: Tigerbombs - All time wasted

Mon, 10 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0700

I suppose I should probably give the metal postings a rest and hook y'all up with some good-time summer fun music. I loved Tigerbombs' debut album "Loves you" was an unexpected surprise when it showed up in my mailbox back in 2004, so I was very excited to hear their follow-up record "Crazy kids never learn" when it was released earlier this year. It actually first came out in their native Finland way back in February (followed by Japan and GAS in May), but I think it's most fitting that I didn't receive a copy until now. Their sunny, organ-driven garagepop is perfect for this time of year. If you were let down by the last Caesars album like I was, this will hit the spot. Someone needs to fill that niche and Tigerbombs are a perfect fit.
Extra credit: check out the band's recently updated tour diary from their recent trip to Germany: http://tigerbombs.com/diary/2006%20germany%20tour%201.htm

Wed, 05 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Marit Bergman's new album "I think it's a rainbow" will be released on September 6. The first single "No party" comes out July 31. The record was self-produced by Marit and longtime collaborator Åsa Jacobsson along with the always-fab Björn Yttling (Peter, Bjorn and John, Montys Loco, Caesars, etc.).

MP3: Starlet - Sunshine

Fri, 09 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Happy Friday! Got another summery mp3 post for you today courtesy of contributor Nancy Baym:

To follow up on my last music-for-dumping-your-partner-with-a-smile-on-your-face contribution from the Caesars', here's another song likening breaking up to sun bursting through the clouds. "Let the sunshine in/Let the sunshine through/A brighter tomorrow/Cuz I'm through with you," sing Malmö's late-great Starlet in their inimitable pretty ever so askew lazy yet lovely way. This song is from their 2002 album "When sun falls on my feet". Starlet are somewhere between jangle and twee, melancholy and soothing. Enjoy.

The Slaves Save me from yesterday Playground

Sun, 04 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700

The Slaves aren't that bad (in fact, they're sort of mediocre), but I don't really see the point with them when there are other (Swedish) bands such as Caesars, Suburban Kids With Biblical Names, Pet Politics, etc around doing this type of music, but with much more finesse and less clichés. I might listen to the odd track from "Save me from yesterday" in the future, since a nice melody pops up here and there, but overall I find it unexciting.

MP3: Caesars - (I'm gonna) Kick you out

Fri, 26 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Few things are nicer on a Friday morning than having the day's mp3 post already written. Thank you Nancy Baym!

Caesars (as they're known in the US) have gained a lot of notoriety recently for their ubiquity in ads, especially "Jerk it out"'s role as the invisible music playing in those dancing silhouettes' iPods, but it may come as news to some that they've been producing irresistible pop nuggets for years under multiple names including Caesar's Palace and The Twelve Caesars. Here's a number from their 1998 record "Youth is wasted on the young" that showcases the more classic garage elements of their sound, including an organ riff right out of ? and the Mysterians' "96 Tears". The lyrics are cheerful Swedish cynicism at its best: "I'm gonna kick you out/let the sunshine in." If you're planning on dumping your not-so-loved one soon, put this song on repeat.

Wed, 24 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Swedish pop music blog Sounds of Sweden has posted an mp3 of Iggy Pop doing "Punkrocker" backed by Teddybears STHLM: http://soundsofsweden.blogspot.com/2006/05/cause-im-poptimist-yes-i-am.html
I'm most familiar with the Caesars version of the track, but I guess it's been done many times over?

Thu, 05 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Intrepid IAT reporter Jason Christie ran into Noel Gallagher of Oasis at the airport earlier today and he said that he still rates TSOOL, can handle the Hives, thinks Caesars are "ok" and likes "some other Swedish band called Kashmir." He meant Danish, but well - you know...

Wed, 02 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0800

This is a week chock full of exclusives! Besides giving you the very first taste of the new The End Will Be Kicks album and offering it up for sale on mp3 waaaaay before it's available anywhere else, I've got yet another treat for you today! When I first heard that Björn Yttling had a jazz album in the works, I was naturally quite curious. Many people now recognize him as a member of the excellent Peter Bjorn and John, but I first became aquainted with his music through his extensive work as a producer. Many fine records in my collection are adorned with his name on the credits. So not only do I have a brand new track from his upcoming album today, but I was also afforded the opportunity to ask Björn a few questions about his work.

AR: Why a jazz album? What was the inspiration for the project?

BY: I've always listened to jazz (stuff like Mingus, Ornette Coleman, Charlie Haden, Ellington and of course Coltrane and Charlie Parker) and ten years ago I also played it. But the jazz scene can be very very boring with people just playing standards in predictable ways, so I kind of slipped away from it. I was still writing jazz songs though, and spurred by saxophone player Jonas Kullhammar I started thinking of making a jazz record.

AR: Is there a lot of difference in the way you work when you are composing jazz charts as opposed to when you are doing arrangements for pop music?

BY: No not really. The biggest different is that (my) jazz music is instrumental and pop music often isn't. Of course with jazz tunes you can leave the forms more open for improvising. I recorded this record in a day, and pop albums always take at least two.

AR: What other current producers do you admire right now?

BY:I really don't keep track on foreign producers that much, but there are many Swedes that I really like. Björn Olsson, Pelle Gunnerfeldt and Jari Haapalainen of course, but don't forget Jocke Åhlund from Caesars and Calle Olsson from Bear Quartet.

AR: So what's next for you then?

BY: I'm doing/planning a few records right now. Montys Loco, Elias & The Wizzkids, The Charm, Pueblo and we're almost done with the new Peter Bjorn And John album. What I really looking forward to do now is a record with Joakim Åhlund, and we're gonna start next week.

Björn's new jazz album with Yttling Jazz is called "Oh Lord, why can't I keep my big mouth shut". It comes out November 21 via Headspin Recordings.

MP3: Yttling Jazz - Tokyo Hyatt

Wed, 02 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0800

AR: Why a jazz album? What was the inspiration for the project?

AR: Is there a lot of difference in the way you work when you are composing jazz charts as opposed to when you are doing arrangements for pop music?

AR: What other current producers do you admire right now?

AR: So what's next for you then?

Björn's new jazz album with Yttling Jazz is called "Oh Lord, why can't I keep my big mouth shut". It comes out November 21 via Headspin Recordings.

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Renown Swedish musician/producer Björn Yttling (Peter Bjorn and John, Caesars, etc.) recorded a jazz album this summer and will be releasing it on November 21 via Headspin Recordings. The music is said to take cues from other artists such as Charlie Mingus, Ennio Morricone and Joe Meek and judging from the samples I've heard, that's an accurate assessment.

Thu, 29 Sep 2005 00:00:00 -0700

I am shocked that the US loves Dungen so much. Firstly, the album "Stadsvandringar", originally released on Dolores in 2002, will be given a US reissue on October 4 via Astralwerks. I guess the two labels must like each other after working together on Caesars/Caesars Palace. Oh, and Pitchfork has a new live review posted as well: http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/features/live/d/dungen-05/

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0700

New European dates for Caesars:

09/02 - Idro Rock, Milan (ITA)
09/03 - Electric Picnic Festival, Dublin (IRE)
09/04 - Winterthur Festival, Zurich (SWI)
09/15 - Kesselhaus (VISIONS @ Popkomm), Berlin (GER)
09/23 - The Atomic Café, München (GER)
09/24 - SWR 3 New Pop, Baden-Baden (GER)
09/25 - Fle, Vienna (AUS)

Tue, 23 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Indieworkshop reviews Caesars: http://indieworkshop.com/music/1926/

Wed, 22 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0700

The Caesars' recent show at the Bowery Ballroom in NYC from June 16 will be broadcasted on Internet radio station K-Rock2 this coming Thursday (tomorrow) at 7 and 11pm EST. In other Caesars news, the band will contribute their cover of the Blue Oyster Cult classic "Don't fear the reaper" to the "Six Feet Under: Everything ends, music from the HBO original series - vol. 2" compilation, due out June 28 via Astralwerks. Other acts appearing on the disc include Interpol, Arcade Fire and Death Cab for Cutie. But will there be enough cowbell?

Tue, 21 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0700

New US tourdates for Caesars:

7/09 - 99X Radio Show, Atlanta*
7/11 - North Star Bar, Philadelphia
7/12 - Paradise Rock Club, Boston
7/13 - 9:30 Club, Washington DC
7/14 - Southpaw, Brooklyn
7/15 - Zaphod Beeblebrox, Ottawa (CAN)*
7/16 - St. Andrews Hall, Detroit
7/17 - Double Door, Chicago
7/18 - Ascot Room @ The Quest, Minneapolis
7/20 - Bluebird Theater, Denver
7/21 - Lo-Fi Café, Salt Lake City
7/22 - Dante's, Portland
7/23 - Taste of Seattle (KBKS stage), Seattle*
7/24 - Slim's, San Francisco
7/25 - El Rey Theatre, Los Angeles

All dates with Golden Republic except for those with an *.

Podcast: Feel-good summer mix

Tue, 14 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0700

DATE ADDED : 06.14.05
LENGTH : 34:16 min
DOWNLOAD : itsatrap_podcast_06142005.mp3 (24.1mb)
RSS : [click here]

Tracklist:
01. Desert Planet - Breakout button
02. Randy - Beware (feat. Fat Mike)
03. The First Miles - Baby baby baby baby baby baby baby I love you
04. Moneybrother - My lil girl's straight from heaven
05. Double-O - Call of a lifetime
06. Caesars - Get off of my cloud
07. Monkeystrikes - Let's go to Hawaii
08. The Fine Arts Showcase - Galveston
09. Tigerbombs - 1000 sparks
10. Eric Beyond - Step off
11. Giant Robot - Boys and girls

Caesars Live @ ULU, London, 05/25/05

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Caesars had fierce competition this night, from the Champion League Final between Liverpool and Milan that was on TVs in a adjacent bar (if you're American you probably haven't got a clue what this is, but let's just say it's a very important soccer game). Whereas the sport event was full of excitement and drama, Caesars' gig was quite ordinary, non-spectacular, and pretty tame. Caesar Vidal, the lead singer, looked utterly bored and none of the other band members' efforts could make up for his lack of charisma. Caesars got plenty of good material so for them to mess up a gig like this is pretty weird and I left ULU feeling a bit cheated, just like all those Milan fans.

Thu, 12 May 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Here's this week's YLE/Morjen top 10 Nordic video chart:

01. Millencolin - Ray (SWE)
02. Smak - Nousen (FIN)
03. Apocalyptica feat. Lauri Ylönen - Life burns! (FIN)
04. Korpiklaani - Hunting song (FIN)
05. @junkmail - Hyvä minä (FIN)
06. Vink - Triathlon (FIN)
07. Feiled - Lost (FIN)
08. Carpark North - Human (DK)
09. Anniina - Who's about to cry (FIN)
10. Disco Ensemble - We might fall apart (FIN)

Challengers:
11. Discore - Rautakahle (FIN)
12. Caesars - We got to leave (SWE)
13. Sophie Rimheden & Håkan Lidbo - Främling (SWE)

Fri, 06 May 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Pitchfork (predictably) gives a tepid review to the new Caesars album: http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/record-reviews/c/caesars/paper-tigers.shtml

Mon, 02 May 2005 00:00:00 -0700

MTV interviews Caesars guitarist Joakim Ahlund: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1501019/20050429/caesars.jhtml

Mon, 02 May 2005 00:00:00 -0700

PopMatters reviews the new Caesars album "Paper tigers": http://popmatters.com/music/reviews/c/caesars-papertigers.shtml

Wed, 27 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Brand new exclusive track today from Montys Loco. It's a glorious pop nugget - less than two minutes, but still capable of packing quite a wallop. Epic melodies, but not epic length. Anyhow, the group is currently recording new material under the tutelage of producer Björn Yttling (Peter, Bjorn & John, Caesars), but is currently labeless. They put out records on NONS/MNW in the past, but seeing as how that relationship has been severed and NONS is indie again, I can only presume that budgets are much tighter and there's just not enough money to go around. Not to criticize the label's business tactics (I know budget constraints first-hand), but it's a real shame since this song is so good. Not only that, it shows great promise for more to come. Oh-well. Wait and see what happens.

Mon, 25 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0700

US dates for the Caesars:

6/02 - Troubador, Los Angeles, CA
6/04 - KNDD "End Fest", Seattle, WA
6/05 - Red Room, Vancouver (CAN)
6/07 - KNRK Show, Portland, OR
6/08 - Bottom of the Hill, San Francisco, CA
6/09 - KCNL Show, San Jose, CA
6/10 - Rockin' on the Landing, St Louis, MO
6/12 - Cabaret, Montreal (CAN)
6/13 - Mod Club, Toronto (CAN)
6/14 - Schubas, Chicago, IL
6/15 - Little Brothers, Columbus, OH
6/16 - Bowery Ballroom, New York, NY
6/17 - TT the Bears (WFNX Show), Boston, MA

Thu, 21 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Caesars will be on Top Of The Pops in the UK this coming weekend to promote the release of their latest album "Paper tigers" which comes out over there on May 2. The record gets released in the US next week on April 26.

Thu, 14 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Dolores has announced that the next singles they'll be releasing will "Dom kommer kliva på dig igen" from Håkan Hellström and the title track "Paper tigers" from the Caesars' latest album.

Wed, 13 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0700

"I spy" has been confirmed as the first single from the upcoming CDOASS debut album "Extra fingers". It comes out April 20 via Playground Music and features guest appearances from members of Revl9n, Caesars and Paddington DC.

Fri, 08 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Day two is when the real party begins! My required listening checklist: The Tiny, Tiger Lou, Caesars and The Ark. I'll try to pop my head in to see a few of the other acts, but my time and energy are limited. It's hard to keep up drinking with the Swedes, y'know. Assuming I'm not too hung over, I'll check back in tomorrow. Cheers!

Fri, 18 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0800

Here's this week's top 20 Swedish album chart:

01. Kent - Du och jag döden
02. Moneybrother - To die alone
03. Christer Sjögren - Love Me Tender
04. Hammerfall - Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken
05. Timbuktu - Alla vill till himmelen men ingen vill dö
06. Håkan Hellström - Ett kölikbarns bekännelser
07. Darin - The anthem
08. Bodies Without Organs - Prototype
09. Kristofer Åström & Hidden Truck - So much for staying alive
10. Christian Walz - Paint by Numbers
11. Lars Winnerbäck - Vatten under broarna
12. Anna Ternheim - Somebody Outside
13. Arash - Arash Arash
14. Magnus Uggla - Den tatuerade generationen
15. Lena Philipsson - Det gör ont en stund på natten men inget på dan
16. The Wallstones - Pleasure and pain
17. The Real Group - In the Middle of Life
18. Caesars - Paper Tigers
19. Ted Gärdestad - Sol vind & vatten - Det bästa
20. Stefan Nilsson - Så som i himmelen (filmmusik)

Eldkvarn have set April 20 as the release date of their new album "Atlantis" along with the first single "Konfettiregn". The record was produced by Bear Quartet guitarist Jari Haapalainen and features guest appearances from Christer Sjögren and Håkan Hellström.

Thu, 10 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0800

Here's this week's top 20 Swedish album chart:

01. Moneybrother - To die alone
02. Christer Sjögren - Love Me Tender
03. Hammerfall - Chapter V: Unbent, Unbowed, Unbroken
04. Timbuktu - Alla vill till himmelen men ingen vill dö
05. Darin - The anthem
06. Håkan Hellström - Ett kölikbarns bekännelser
07. Christian Walz - Paint by Numbers
08. Lars Winnerbäck - Vatten under broarna
09. Anna Ternheim - Somebody Outside
10. Caesars - Paper Tigers
11. Arash - Arash Arash
12. Lena Philipsson - Det gör ont en stund på natten men inget på dan
13. Magnus Uggla - Den tatuerade generationen
14. Stefan Nilsson - Så som i himmelen (filmmusik)
15. Ted Gärdestad - Sol vind & vatten - Det bästa
16. Barbados - Best of Barbados 1994-2004
17. Soilwork - Stabbing the Drama
18. Pain - Dancing with the Dead
19. The Ark - State of the Ark
20. The Real Group - In the Middle of Life

Go here to download some demo tracks from Consequences, a Swedish band consisting primarily of members from Marit Bergman's backing band: http://www.consequences.se/musik.php

Thu, 12 Jun 2003 00:00:00 -0700

Added a new mp3 today from Last Days of April. Their latest album "Ascend to the Stars" just came out over here in the US and the track "Playerin" is easily my favorite from that release. In fact, it was my favorite summer single last year. Y'know those songs you sometimes hear on the radio around this time of year that seem to embody the essence of summertime? That song fits the bill perfectly. And as for this year, my pick (so far) would probably have to be "Reconsider Me" from Moneybrother. I figure y'all were just dying to know.

Otherwise, there's probably not going to be much news today as everyone is at Hultsfred fest it seems. Wish I was. Check out the Dagensskiva special on the event. Oh, and check out www.hultsfred.tv for more, too.

This week's MTV Up North Nordic video chart:

01. The Rasmus - In The Shadows
02. Outlandish - Guantanamo
03. A-Teens - Perfect Match
04. Turbonegro - Fuck The World
05. The Cardigans - You´re The Storm
06. Kashmir - Rocket Brothers
07. Her Majesty - F.U.N.E.R.A.L
08. C21 - She Cries
09. The Sounds - Rock n´ Roll
10. Da Buzz - Alive
11. Equicez - Live From Pass It
12. HIM - Funeral of hearts
13. Mando Diao - Sheepdog
14. Antique - Moro Mou
15. Melody Club - Cover Girl
16. Darude - Music
17. The Narcissists - Fanatik R.I.P
18. Jon - This Side Up
19. Dallas Superstars - Fast Driving
20. The Klerks - Shame

Challengers:
01. Paula Lobos - Fuss & Fight
02. User - Do You
03. Ingrid Marguerite - Everything I Need
04. Bad Cash Quartet - Dirty Days
05. Superheroes - Someone Else

Go to the MTVE.com site to watch and vote for your favorite.

Download the free, electronic Diskodiktator single for the track "Just Say 'No' to Democrazy!". A video for the song, his first one ever, is in the making. The full-length album "The World According To..." isn't out quite yet, but is already available for preorder.

Voidfaith Netzine has posted an interview with my pals KVLR. (in Swedish)

The Alpine, Moi Caprice, Baal, and Figurines are a couple of the bands confirmed for the Sydslesvig-Rocks in Schleswig, Germany on August 23.

Here's the full schedule for this weekend's Norweigan Wood Festival.

Norweigan jazz vocalist Silje Nergaard has been nominated for the Edison Jazz Award, which will be presented at the upcoming North Sea Jazz Festival on July 11-13. Other nominees for the award include Cassandra Wilson, Diana Krall and Jimmy Scott. More info here: http://www.edisonaward.nl/Jazz/

And speaking of Norweigan jazz, acclaimed saxophonist Jan Garbarek will be on the BBC's Radio 3 Jazz on 3 radio show tomorrow at 11:30pm local time.

Since they didn't manage to send it to me yesterday as planned (ahem.), here's the rest of the playlist from the Galaxy Gramophone DJ night:

11. Raveonettes - Attack of the Ghost Riders
12. Cato Salsa Experience - In Case You Need Deep Love
13. Nicolai Dunger - What Tomorrow
14. Sparks of Seven - Move Me On
15. TSOOL - Independent Luxury
16. Singapore Sling - Overdriver
17. Union Crabide Productions - Golden Age
18. Backyard Babies - Made Me Madman
19. Citizen Bird - Joy
20. DOLL - Need To Get Some
21. DOLL - We've Been Planning This For Years
22. Isolation Years - Arctic Zone
23. Cardigans - Communication
24. Whyte Seeds - Slow Motions
25. Motorpsycho - Dr. Hoffman's Bicycle
26. TSOOL - Nobrainer
27. Turbonegro - Turbonegro Must Be Destroyed
28. Union Carbide Productions - Mr. Untitled
29. Caesars - Sort It Out

30. Sahara Hotnights - Push On Some More
31. Hardcore Superstar - Rock n Roll Star
32. Concretes - You Can't Hurry Love
33. Hives - What's That Spell? Go To Hell!
34. Raveonettes - Great Love Sound
35. TSOOL - Still Aging (request)
36. Isolation Years - Open Those Eyes
37. Bear Quartet - I Remember...
38. Broder Daniel - Dark Heart
39. Jan Martens Frustration - Get Along Get Together
40. Hellacopters - By the Grace of God
41. Motorpsycho - Glow
42. TSOOL - Impacts & Egos
43. Bear Quartet - Fuck Yr Slow Songs
44. Heikki - All I Needed
45. TSOOL - Hang Ten
46. Nicolai Dunger - Something In the Way
47. Bjorn Olsson - selections from the new CD to close the bar....

They also pass along word that they are encouraging more people to send them music to play, along with t-shirts to wear while spinning and whatever. Um, so like, send your goods to me and I'll make sure they get them, right? But seriously - if you're interested in sending stuff just drop me a line and I'll put you in touch.

Lambgoat.com reports that The Great Deceiver (Tomas from At the Gates/Skitsystem + members of Diabolique) will be touring Europe in October/November along with Swedish metal-wannabees Darkest Hour.

Here's the top 20 Swedish albums of the week, as reported by Aftonbladet:

01. Carola - Guld platina & passion - det bästa
02. Tomas Ledin - I sommarnattens ljus
03. Pugh Rogefeldt - Pughs bästa
04. Tommy Körberg - Gränslös - det bästa med
05. The Cardigans - Long gone before daylight
06. Robert Wells - Rhapsody in rock the complete collection
07. Da Buzz - More than alive
08. Alcazar - Alcazarized
09. Kent - Vapen & ammunition
10. Glenmark Eriksson Strömstedt - Den andra skivan
11. Timbuktu - The botten is nådd!
12. Moneybrother - Blood panic
13. Lisa Nilsson - Samlade sånger 1992-2003
14. Style, Sandelin & Ekman, Freestyle - Samlade hits
15. Cornelis Vreeswijk - Cornelis Vreeswijks bästa
16. v/a - Fame factory visor
17. Martin Nilsson - En del av mig
18. Lars Winnerbäck och Hovet - Söndermarken
19. Eddie Meduza - Live(s)!
20. v/a - Fame Factory volym 5

Entombed has been forced to cancel their appearance at the BW&BK 6-Pack Weekend in Cleveland, Ohio on June 13-14 after drummer Peter Stjärnvind's wife was hospitalized. The cause of her ailments are still undiagnosed and of course Peter wishes to remain with her at this time. Guitarist Alex Hellid commented, "Peter is really upset by this. He doesn't want to be the cause of us not playing. We all know how important this show is/was. We are really sorry, for the fans and for ourselves, because we really wanted to play." Alex and frontman L.G. Petrov still plan to be in attendance at the fest to sign autographs and meet with fans. Other bands still scheduled to play include Evergrey, Trouble and Candlemass.

Nightwish has added a second date to their short US/N. American itinerary. After playing the ProgPower Festival in Atlanta on September 5 and at The Medley in Montreal, Canada on September 6, the band will play L'Amour in Brooklyn, NY on the 7th.

Thu, 08 May 2003 00:00:00 -0700

The Caesars aka Caesars Palace have gotten themselves a write-up in the May issue of Kerrang:

Swedish people rock. And not just because of their shiny hair and nice teeth, but because they seem to possess an understated sense of style, intelligence and passion for all things rock. Mixing the pill-popping, proto-punk sounds of The Who with the grandiose LSD-tinged pop of Phil Spector, Caesars have been the centre of the Swedish renaissance since their formation in the mid-90s, watching some of their comrades-in-ties accidentally spearhead the garage-rock revival along the way.
"Anything which becomes 'cool' soon attracts crap bands and becomes passé, but that's okay because then things go back underground," ponders singer/guitarist Jocke Ahlund. "What would be bad is if people thought we'd formed a garage band two weeks ago when some of our songs on our new album are seven years old. And, um, we're not a garage band."
He's right, of course. Dipping into blissful West Coast psychedelia, Caesars' new album is light years beyond the scene that prompted Ahlund to form the band with childhood friend Cesar Vidal, inspired by a diet of Billy Childish and Sonic Youth. As is the way with many in the Swedish scene, Caesars (who go by the name Caesars Palace back home) aren't shy in helping out their like-minded brethren - The Hives cite them as major influences, Ahlund directed Refused's seminal "New noise" video and they've just toured the US with their buds The Soundtrack Of Our Lives.Twenty-five Swedes rolling into a new American town every day and taking over was funny," chuckles the singer. "It's hard not to party on tour. As Swedes we make sure we don't go anywhere without a little ass-pocket of vodka..."

They also got a favorable review in NME. Read it on the band's website. I tell ya - with the right promotion we'll definitely be hearing a lot more about these guys in the near future.

The Venue have updated their website with part II of the "Dude, where's my lighter" tour diary from their recent trip to the US.

Randy have been added to the lineup of the Download festival which takes place May 31 to June 1 in the UK at Donington Park. More info: www.downloadfestival.co.uk

Dolores Records has actually confirmed a release date of August 25 for a new Broder Daniel single. I'll believe it when I see it.

In other Dolores news, the label has signed the band Cdoass and will release a single for the song "Autovision" very soon. It's a rerecording of a song they've already released and the CD will include the tracks from their latest 7" too ("Airplanes" b/w "The Box"). And finally, Dolores will also put out a 12" version of the single through their singles club which will have a special remix of the title track as the flipside. Oh, and in case you're curious, the band is described as post-punk ala Gang of Four, Television and Talking heads.

And in even more Dolores news, the label has also revealed their latest single for the club will be "123 Bom Bom" from Love Is All featuring Josefin of the band Girlfrendo. More info including mp3s are available here.

Finnish psyche-rockers Circle will touring central Europe in June. Check it:

06/06 - Scheune, Dresden (DE)
06/07 - Fundus, Weingarten (DE)
06/08 - Reitschule, Bern (CH)
06/09 - Sue Ellen Bar, Zürich (CH)
06/11 - Raum 102, München (DE)
06/12 - Cafe Cairo, Würzburg (DE)
06/13 - Stubnitz, Rostock (DE)
06/14 - Silke, Hannover (DE)
06/15 - Magnet, Berlin (DE)
06/16 - Molotow, Hamburg (DE)

Interested in what the Moonbabies are up? Check out this studio report page. Included are pics from the studio along with the potential cover art design and more.

Kaospilot has finally secured a release date for their self-titled debut full-length on June 9 through Level-Plane Records.

Advance Patrol's new single "Min Musik" comes out in June. The b-side will be for the track "Området E På Plats" which features guest appearances from Lilleman and Helt Fjuttade. While you're at it, check out AP on tour in the near future:

05/07 - Stockholm
05/09 - Linköping
05/14 - Köpenhamn
05/31 - Stockholm
06/12 - Hultsfred
06/26 - Roskilde
07/05 - Tivolirocken in Kristianstad

Isolation Years, The Leeches, Nebos, Endivia, and The Heartattacks have all been added to the lineup of the Blow Up a Panda fest which takes place July 26-27 in Stockholm.

Abbath from Immortal guests on a couple tracks on the new Dimmu Borgir record. One of the songs on which he appears is called "Humanity Perverse" and it will also feature the Prague Orchestra String Section. Look for it in stores this September from Nuclear Blast.

Zyklon (ex-Emperor) has revealed the track listing to their upcoming album "Aeon", due out in September on Candlelight Records:

01. Psyklon Aeon
02. Core Solution
03. Two Thousand Years
04. No Names Above the Names
05. The Prophetic Method
06. Specimen Eruption
07. Electric Current
08. An Eclectic Manner

Zyklon and fellow Norweigans Myrkskog play the Cameron Underworld in London on June 6.

Here's the top 20 Swedish albums of the week, as reported by Aftonbladet:

01. v/a - Fame Factory volym 5
02. Glenmark Eriksson Strömstedt - Den andra skivan
03. The Cardigans - Long gone before daylight
04. Timbuktu - The botten is nådd!
05. Robert Wells - Rhapsody in rock the complete collection
06. Lisa Nilsson - Samlade sånger 1992-2003
07. Cornelis Vreeswijk - Cornelis Vreeswijks bästa
08. Jill Johnson - Discography
09. Lars Winnerbäck och Hovet - Söndermarken
10. Antique - Blue love
11. Siw Malmkvist - Siws bästa
12. Simson Dupont - Simson Dupont
13. Kent - Vapen & ammunition
14. Elin Sigvardsson - Saturday light naive
15. Lasse Tennander - Därifrånochhit sånger 1974-2003
16. Mauro Scocco - Beat hotel
17. v/a - Fame Factory volym 4
18. The Refreshments - On the rocks
19. The Sounds - Living in America
20. Roxette - The pop hits

It has been revealed that Cecilia Nordlund makes a guest appearance on the upcoming Her Majesty record which comes out on May 26. As mentioned yesterday, people who preorder the new album will receive an exclusive free pin with their purchase.

Moneybrother, Nasum, and The Hellacopters have been added to the Hultsfred fest lineup.

Nightwish has pushed back the release date of their upcoming "End of Innocence" DVD to July 7. No reason was given for the delay.