IT'S A TRAP! Scandinavian Music Journal

Interview: Rasmus Kellerman

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 18:59:08 -0700

Rasmus Kellerman has a new band, but he won't tell us what it's called, or who else is in it.

If you've wanted more of the arrestingly heart-felt acoustic music that Kellerman began to explore with the album "The 24th", you won't be getting it (or at least, not right now). The album that Kellerman released under his own name was marked by a stripped-down honesty carried by his clear voice and lone guitar, with lyrics more autobiographical than his project Tiger Lou. It's brave when a musician takes on the "I" persona, and maybe, if you're blessed (or cursed) with the humbleness of a Swede, it might be a bit difficult for you to sell.

About a year ago there came a slightly dark time in Kellerman's blog that seemed to reflect his struggle with the sheer difficulty of standing alone on a stage without a band to share in the creative jam. Performing alone, no matter how honest the music and emotion, seemed vastly different from the joy that Kellerman expressed in past interviews about the musical collaboration that occurred onstage with Tiger Lou. But in the moment when an artist is in creative turmoil, soul-searching and changing, the most interesting music often occurs; as if feeling lost is the best place to begin something new.

If you're a follower of Kellerman's blog, you'll know that plenty of music is going on right now in Kellerman's life -- but it's all behind the closed doors of the studio. Kellerman has lately formed the first band in which he is collaborating on the actual musical creation itself (unlike Tiger Lou, in which the collaboration happened after album production and during performance), and while he has been hesitant to talk much about the band before the music hits the world, it seems to mark a new musical perspective and direction for him.

The way he speaks of it is of an ensemble effort, very much a meeting of minds and talents, and he digs waiting for the music that emerges from it. Rasmus is making us wait for more details too, but he's taken the time to tease us about it. It's a Trap interviewed him this past week.

I would like to learn more about your new project! I understand from your blog that you're not yet ready to talk about it beyond "It's with two friends and it really inspires me," but to me it means a break from how you seemed to write about music in your blog a few years ago.

I guess you're right about that! The difference this time around is that I'm in an actual band, with actual people. It's not just me, a guitar and a computer, writing music, and figuring stuff out as I move along. For now, the info is sparse, partly because there's not much to tell, and partly because we really want the music to be the first thing people encounter. There's is an idea to it, and we're not being elusive for the sake of being elusive. I like sharing the writing and recording process, and loved writing about my recordings etc., but those projects were so different from this one.

I seem to recall a post from the end of 2010 that seemed incredibly glum about your creative process and music in general. In the humble view of a stranger, it seemed that you put a lot on the line to sing your autobiographical songs, and maybe felt a bit disappointed by the results. 2011 was a year in which you picked up from that, and then in October of 2011 you were signed to Razzia Records and things seemed to kick back into gear...

Every time I've finished a record or a tour, I feel like it was my last one. Not because I don't love making records or touring with my friends, but because I think I can never write a new album, or possibly make another tour break even. And also because I'm very dependent on things being progressive.

When I wrote my acoustic album, I had no intention of making it a "proper" release. I was living in Berlin, Tiger Lou were on indefinite hiatus, I had an office and was doing graphic design full time, walking the dog and enjoying the slow road. Then I sent some stuff to Startracks, and the A&R Fredrik Holmgren was so stoked about it, which in turn rubbed off on me. So I figured I'd give it another go, but with a very different approach than usual. I wanted to keep everything very simple.

I booked two weeks in Rolf Klinth's studio (where I always record) and called my friend Thomas Hedlund, asking him to play drums on some of the tracks. We never rehearsed beforehand, it was just me, Thomas and Rolf, trying the song out a couple of times, and then punching the record-button. After that we brought in some more people for a few overdubs, but essentially, no editing was done, everything is live and very much on the spur of the moment.

All the vocals were recorded during the same night (due to me having the flu for ten fucking days straight, and no voice to sing with). All the songs are very personal, some were several years old, some brand new. My main goal was to do everything differently, and I'm very happy with the outcome. In regards to everything else, I guess most people just weren't as stoked about the outcome as I was. That's life for you.

So where does this leave you musically now? At some point in your blog you wrote about wanting to make stuff that wasn't like anything you'd done before (in Araki or Tiger Lou or under your own name).

As for now, I'm working full time at a huge ad company, so finding the time and energy to make music is sometimes difficult. However, I'm fortunate enough to be able to take time off sporadically, and lock myself into a studio someplace, trying to make something beautiful again. That is what the new band is about.

So what's it like?! What do you have to say about your music right now?

Shit, I dunno. It's always weird. When I was younger writing was so easy. These days, sometimes it feels like a chore. But in a good way obviously. It just takes a true effort is what I mean, and I'm good with that. Once a new song is finished, that feeling is one of the best ones there is.

And now, with being in band, it's even better in the end. Because now, there are other people involved, who've added and subtracted from the equation, making the music so much bigger that what it originally was. That's why I try to do a lot of collaborations and remixes these days, there are elements in there, much bigger than me. A very big world, waiting for me to explore it.

So you mention how exciting it is to work with other people in a band, rather than having all of the reins yourself. What have you gained? And do you feel like you've lost anything (like, obviously, total control), and is it a worthy trade?

I don't really see it as a trade, as I still have the ability to do another Tiger Lou album anytime I choose to. When I need to hide away, write every single note of music, play every instrument, produce it myself, I'll do so. For now I'm really happy doing something new, and sharing the experience. The best being that the sum of the group is greater than the sum of its parts.

I could ask about musicians and if we're familiar with them from other musical projects, but I'll wait to be happily surprised. Instead, what I'm most itchingly curious about is what this music sounds like. Any hint at all? "Sounds like a sunny day in Berlin" ?

The soundscape is very much 80s oriented, mainly using vintage analog synthesizers like Jupiter 8, CS-80 and Mirage. One of the guys is a techno/house producer so his influence on all things rhythmic is very noticeable. And I guess I have a personal style of writing songs, melodies and words, so that shines through as well. The third person is a melodic genius and whenever his fingers touch the keys, magic happens. The sound is very big, very emotional and very danceable.

This all sounds extremely exciting, can't wait to hear it!

Interview by Tanya Rezak, photo by Pär Hugo Kjellén

Özgür Can - The kings (feat. Rasmus Kellerman)

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 16:13:06 -0700

New stuff from Swedish techno artist Özgür Can featuring guest vocals from the one-and-only Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou). Look for Özgür's new album "Put me in a box and label me" to be released on September 28; as for Rasmus' new so-far-anonymous project, expect to finally hear songs very, very soon.

Rasmus Kellerman has a new band

Mon, 07 May 2012 13:30:07 -0700

Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou, Araki) has started a new band with two of his friends. Stay tuned.

Firefox AK - Color the trees (video)

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:17:00 -0800

A new video from Firefox AK for the title track of her latest album "Color the trees" which also happens to be a duet with her husband Rasmus Kellerman (aka Tiger Lou).

Top 10s for 2011: Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou/Araki)

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:51:43 -0800

2011 has been an incredible year concerning new music from all around the world. But not since the heyday of Fiction and Creation Records has there been such an abundance of talented and forward-thinking producers on the UK scene. Here are the ten -- to me -- most inspiring tracks from said scene:

SBTRKT – Hold On (feat. Sampha)
Jai Paul – BTSTU
Burial – Street Halo
James Blake – Limit To Your Love
Jamie xx – Far Nearer
Koreless – 4D
Floating Points – Sais (Dub)
Objekt – Unglued
Blawan – Kaz
Martyn + Mike Slott – All Nights

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During 2012 Rasmus Kellerman will continue to work as a graphic designer for DDB Stockholm, write and record a new album for a still unnamed project, finally get his driving license and celebrate his 10th anniversary together with his wife Andrea. Good times ahead.
http://www.rasmuskellerman.com/
http://www.tigerlou.net/

Firefox AK - Islands (The xx cover)

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:30:03 -0700

Check out Firefox AK covering "Islands" by The xx with Rasmus Kellerman/Tiger Lou providing extra vox: http://www.tonspion.de/musik/firefox-ak/musik/2190905
Looks like there's a full stream of her latest album "Color the trees" in the sidebar as well.

Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) signs with Razzia

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:47:51 -0700

In a move that really shouldn't surprise anyone, Rasmus Kellerman has signed with Razzia Records for his next project which, apparently, will not be under his given name, Tiger Lou, nor electronic alias Araki. More: http://rasmuskellerman.com/?p=1233

Araki at SoundCloud

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 14:29:12 -0700

Araki, the techno alter ego of Rasmus Kellerman/Tiger Lou, is now up on SoundCloud with some new tunes: http://soundcloud.com/arakiikara

Top tens for 2010: Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou, Araki)

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 11:14:05 -0800

The Best Songs of 2010

01. Massive Attack "Girl I Love You". My favorite song from the best album of 2010. Horace Andy's voice will haunt my life forever.

02. Danger Mouse & Sparklehorse (feat. Flaming Lips) "Revenge". This song epitomizes the tragic circumstances surrounding the "Dark Night of The Soul" project.

03. Against Me! "Because Of The Shame". Reminds of everything that was good about growing up. The person I was, the people I knew, the bands we had together.

04. Angus & Julia Stone "Big Jet Plane". A friend played me this and it blew me away. Very subtle and very stoned.

05. The National "Bloodbuzz Ohio". Perhaps their best song yet.

06. How To Dress Well "Ready For The World". I don't know anything about this guy, but this track is the most inspiring I've heard all year.

07. Ryan Bingham "The Weary Kind". The movie was great, but this song transcends anything a movie could ever convey.

08. Kings Of Leon "Pyro". I loves my Kings. They speak to me in the most guttural way. The best track from a so-so album.

09. The Gaslight Anthem "We Did It When We Were Young". It awakens the dreams of a life that went by too fast.

10. Four Tet "Angel Echoes". Kieran always creates magic, but this is extraordinary even for him!

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During 2011, Rasmus Kellerman, will continue to work full time as a graphic designer.
In his spare time he will produce a song for Firefox AK, a remix for Torpedo, write new songs for the sophomore albums of Araki and Rasmus Kellerman, collaborate with Zoo Brazil and release a live DVD with Tgr Lou.
http://www.rasmuskellerman.com/
http://www.tigerlou.net/

Rasmus Kellerman to Germany

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 19:19:00 -0700

Rasmus Kellerman is doing a few German shows in November:

11/02 - Studio 672, Köln
11/03 - Prinzenbar, Hamburg
11/04 - Comet, Berlin

Sirius playlist week #38

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:25:13 -0700

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

01. The Radio Dept. - The new improved hypocrisy
02. TALK 2
03. Slidin' Slim - Right wing blues
04. Faråker - Den sista fajten (via är på väg)
05. We Live in Trenches - Male damage
06. Kite - If there's an if in us
07. TALK 3
08. First Love, Last Rites - Slow wind
09. Tomas Halberstad - Add to all noise
10. Last Days of April - America
11. TALK 4
12. C.Aarmé - Golden retriever
13. Far from Tellus - Norwegian fairytale mix
14. Bäddat för Trubbel - Kungen heter Jandek
15. Vidderna - Villfarelser
16. TALK 4
17. Rasmus Kellerman - The 24th
18. Mindy Misty - Inertia
19. Regulations - In the shadow of the mall
20. TALK 5
21. The Bear Quartet - Silent film

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

Rasmus Kellerman - The 24th (video)

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 20:24:42 -0700

Rasmus Kellerman's "The 24th" is the cure-all for all creeping negativism, reminding us to mindful of all we have to be thankful for. How beautiful life can be, indeed. Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1A-pNs7ywM

Rasmus Kellerman The 24th Startracks

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:11:50 -0700

For fans of Tiger Lou, "The 24th" will feel a little like coming home after a long absence –– echoes of tracks like "Sam, as in Samantha" and "Like you said" quietly haunt the album's more melancholy works, and the overall feel of "Is my head still on?" is recognizable throughout Rasmus Kellerman's debut solo effort. The optimism of the self-titled opener, which finds Kellerman reflecting on his youth, fades into "The greatness & me", a track that starts with fond memories of childhood, images that are used as comparisons to a bleaker present and the unknown future, the theme of the following track, "Five years from now". These opening three compositions move wonderfully through past, present, and future, showcasing not only the musical and vocal talents of their creator, but Kellerman's vision and strength as a storyteller. Not all of "The 24th" is as obviously interconnected as these first three tracks, but numerous images and themes recur throughout the album –– laying in the shade of trees, houses by the ocean, the seeming incompatibility of one's past and present coloring their idea of the future, to name a few –– granting "The 24th" a powerful sense of coherence. While not all of the songs are of the caliber of "The greatness & me" or "Five years from now", the record never stumbles, and, as an album that can be played through in its entirety, has grown on me a little more with each listen.

Sirius playlist week #29

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:25:07 -0700

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

01. Champagne Riot - A friend of a friend
02. TALK 1
03. Hur Högt - Hur högt
04. Karl X Johan - Flames
05. Nils Bech & Krazy Fiesta Arkestra - Drunk love
06. TALK 2
07. Håkan Lidbo - Zuzuvela
08. Jasmine Kara - Try my love again
09. Kaka - Below this sun
10. Viola - Neon lightning
11. TALK 3
12. Supersci - Snap out of it
13. Haleiwa - Vibraandaman
14. Korallreven - The truest faith
15. TALK 4
16. Robyn - Dancehall queen
17. Hunt - Ashes of a secret heart
18. Rasmus Kellerman - Where do you go at night
19. TALK 5
20. Tutankamon - Have you ever been in love?

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

Sirius playlist week #25

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 11:26:02 -0700

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

01. Baby Alice - Piña colada boy
02. TALK 1
03. CEO - Come with me
04. Faster Katt - The girl and the crow
05. EL-SD - Walking sideways
06. Masshysteri - Dom kan inte höra musiken
07. TALK 2
08. Champagne Riot - The champagne anthem
09. Khoma - In it for fighting
10. Dear Euphoria - Rescue
11. Haust - Anti-reproductive
12. TALK 3
13. This Is Head - 0011
14. Familjen - Det var jag
15. Mikkel Meyer - Tunge (feat. Non)
16. TALK 4
17. Rasmus Kellerman - The greatness & me
18. Grande Roses - The astronaut
19. We Live In Trenches - White knuckles
20. The Amazing - And it looks like today
21. TALK 5

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

This week's Last.fm chart

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:38:25 -0700

Here is the It's a Trap! listening group top 10 artists of the week, unique to our group:

01. Rasmus Kellerman
02. The Bear Quartet
03. Familjen
04. Robyn
05. The Radio Dept.
06. Beach House
07. Shout Out Louds
08. Teenage Fanclub
09. The National
10. Jens Lekman

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/

Absolu Noise interviews Rasmus Kellerman

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 11:28:01 -0700

Absolut Noise interviews Rasmus Kellerman about his new solo, his first under his own name after many releases as Tiger Lou: http://absolutnoise.blogspot.com/2010/06/24th-interview.html

Sirius playlist week #23

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 11:51:29 -0700

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

01. TALK 1
02. Dear Euphoria - Coming down
03. Magnus Pelander - A sinner's child
04. Monzano - Grand siblings
05. TALK 2
06. Haust - Pointing and laughing
07. Pets - A good day for telling lies
08. Adventure Of - Time will tell
09. Swedish House Mafia - One
10. TALK 3
11. Supersci - Snap out of it
12. Pearl Fiction - The ruby fever
13. Britta Persson - Meet a bear
14. TALK 4
15. Nidingr - Reginsmol
16. The Bear Quartet - You you you you you you
17. Grande - You are the night
18. Rasmus Kellerman - The greatness & me
19. TALK 5
20. Susanne Sundfør - The brothel

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

Sirius playlist week #17

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:06:41 -0700

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

01. Okkultokrati - Ragnarokian
02. TALK 1
03. Menfolk - Matador
04. Newkid - Gör det för
05. Rasmus Kellerman - Five years from now
06. TALK 2
07. The Tarantula Waltz - Synthetic sun (feat. Ebba Forsberg)
08. Kommun - Death of a CEO
09. Far from Tellus - Far from Tellus
10. TALK 3
11. Moddi - Stuck in the waltz
12. Faster Katt - Death song
13. Blowback - Fool
14. TALK 4
15. Nils Bech - Don't worry
16. Familjen - När planeterna stannat
17. Banjo - You and the sun
18. NEI - A wonderful day
19. TALK 5
20. Junip - Rope and summit

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

Sirius playlist week #13

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 11:42:13 -0700

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

01. Brothers of End - Beats for you (Rasmus Hägg remix)
02. TALK 1
03. Haust - A final effort
04. Rasmus Kellerman - Five years from now
05. Echo Is Your Love - Playlist song
06. EL-SD - Walking sideways
07. TALK 2
08. Axe - Harm
09. Khoma - From the hands of sinners
10. Zeigeist - Bunny
11. C.Aarmé - Assuan
12. TALK 3
13. The Fine Arts Showcase - This is the day
14. Sonic Ritual - Early graves
15. Death By Kite - Pills
16. Susanne Sundfør - O master
17. TALK 4
18. Simian Ghost - Star receiver
19. Moloken - Untitled III
20. Darkthrone - I am the graves of the 80s
21. TALK 5

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

Sirius playlist week #12

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 11:31:42 -0700

Here's the playlist for this week's radio show Sirius XMU, a special post-SXSW extra-mellow episode:

01. TALK 1
02. Dead Letters Spell Out Dead Words - Lost & losing
03. Raison d'Étre - Withstand the fire
04. The Bear Quartet - Carry your weight
05. TALK 2
06. Rasmus Kellerman - Five years from now
07. Jóhann Jóhannsson - Theme
08. Håkon Kornstad - Oslo
09. TALK 3
10. Patrik Andersson & Vegar Vårdal - Gråtaren
11. Folkvang - Myrmark
12. Hello Saferide - Arjeplog
13. David Åhlén - Great is thy faithfulness
14. TALK 4
15. Tsukimono - Gloomy Sunday
16. Hearts No Static - Happy holidays
17. Ted Gärdestad - Come give me love
18. TALK 5

Reminder: my show airs every week on Sundays and Mondays at 11pm ET on Sirius XMU. That's channel 26 on Sirius, 43 on XM and 831 for DirecTV subscribers.

MP3: Rasmus Kellerman - Five years from now

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:57:04 -0700

I came to the point a few years ago when I finally realized I was a bona fide adult. It was kind of a "holy shit" moment because it's not as if I had it planned it or had any big aspirations or anything, but I could no longer ignore the symptoms: career, mortgage, wife, kids (well, actually dogs, but same difference as far as I'm concerned), 401k, yadda yadda. Big "R" responsibilities and with that comes new gravity, new concerns. Do you ever think about what you want to be doing five years from now? What about 10 or even 20? I actually sat down with a financial planner the other day and faced up to those questions. Which is not to say that Rasmus Kellerman is facing similar circumstances, but I wouldn't doubt it. Recording under his own given name without the anchor of a backing band says something to me about newfound confidence and maturity. It's a scary feeling stepping off on your own like that, but also very exciting. Closing doors, opening new ones you couldn't fit through before.

If you've ever had the pleasure of seeing Rasmus perform solo, this won't sound unfamiliar. Tiger Lou was always essentially his project, as least in the studio, but there's no hiding it here. There's nothing to hide behind.

Rasmus Kellerman album gets release date

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:35:01 -0800

Rasmus Kellerman's debut album "The 24th" has been officially confirmed for release on May 21. Keep an eye out for tourdates to be announced soon.

Rasmus Kellmerman - Five years from now

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:06:53 -0800

Rasmus Kellerman is giving a new song called "Five years from now", the first official taste of his forthcoming solo debut "The 24th": http://rasmuskellerman.com/?p=895

Rasmus Kellerman album due in late April

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 18:58:05 -0800

Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) says that his debut solo album "The 24th" is finished and will be released in late April: http://rasmuskellerman.com/?p=881

Rasmus Kellerman's new album is done

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 17:41:51 -0800

Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) reports from the studio that his new album "The 24th" is done and awaiting mixing: http://rasmuskellerman.com/?p=807

Rasmus Kellerman in the studio

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 11:29:45 -0800

Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) is currently in the studio working on his first album under his own given name: http://rasmuskellerman.com/?p=707

Rasmus Kellerman - Stay hungry

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:26:26 -0800

Rasmus Kellerman (nee Tiger Lou) has a new demo tune streaming at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/rasmuskellerman
(yes, it is a Twisted Sister cover)

Rasmus Kellerman - Something to build upon

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:14:32 -0700

Hey look! Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) has a brand new demo track on myspace: http://www.myspace.com/rasmuskellerman

Top 10 update

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:31:51 -0800

The time has arrived: It's a Trap's top 10 albums of 2008
Our top songs of 2008 podcast will go up tomorrow.

And don't forget to check out some other recent top 10s from our various guest contributors:

Niklas Åström (And the Sound)
Jacob Holm-Lupo (The Opium Cartel/White Willow)
Tobias Hellkvist
Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou/Araki)
Karin Ström

Tiger Lou A partial print Startracks

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0800

I'm going to admit from the start that I had some difficulty with "A partial print" when I listened to it on Startracks' page a week or so before its release. I was overwhelmed and excited by the opening five compositions, and then this feeling slipped a little - the abandonment of Tiger Lou's typically quite structured, complete arrangements on tracks like "Trails of spit" seemed to dilute the weight of the songs' conclusions, and the closing, nine-minute long opus felt too ambling and unfocused to be a proper culmination of the album's energies. I admit these issues here only to demonstrate that "A partial print" is not an album that reveals its immediacy, its intentioned presence on a first or second listen - what you are presented with is a collage, a collection of images, all of them darkly beautiful extensions of the emotional landscape of "The loyal", but the connections between these impressions can take some time to present themselves, but they will, and then "A partial print" comes fully into being.

The tone of "A partial print" is a dark one, represented not only in the recurring theme of leaving a small fragment of yourself behind, but in the intricate abandon and melancholy of the instrumentation which, on a number of occasions, evolves into heavy, post-hardcore breakdowns akin to the efforts on Small Brown Bike's brilliant swansong "The river bed". The production on the album is fantastic, accentuating the full drum arrangements, the beautiful guitar and bass work, and, of course, Rasmus Kellerman's magnificent, haunting voice. "The less you have to carry", in my opinion the greatest song Tiger Lou have crafted, is the first to truly bear the burden of "A partial print", and is therefore the song that fashions the aesthetic tenets of the album. The line "A partial print is all that I'm leaving behind, a little something to remember me by" is repeated in the closing title track, giving the record an unsettling conclusion - that of an endless cycle of departure and loss, but, as Tiger Lou established themselves as the masters of harrowing grace with "The loyal", this journey doesn't feel haunted or disillusioned, not even as you retrace your footsteps. Nor is it all a cynical, disheartening experience - glimmers of hope shine through in "So demure" and the single "Crushed by a crowd".

"A partial print" is difficult, complicated, heartbreaking, and inspiring - everything we've come to expect from Tiger Lou.

MP3: Tiger Lou - Crushed by a crowd

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 11:16:05 -0800

I won't pretend to be impartial on Tiger Lou's new album "A partial print". Not only do we have a working relationship (I put out the "Until I'm there" 7"), but I am also lucky enough to consider Rasmus Kellerman a friend. Apparently I'm also something of an inspiration, having intoned the words "The more you give, the less you carry" when offering to lend a hand with the band's gear at Umeå Open. Who knew I was such a font of wisdom? Who would've thought such seemingly mundane circumstances can be so transformed? So yeah, I am about as far from unbiased as one can be, though I hardly let such matters keep me from opining on many subjects.

"Crushed by a crowd" struck me as an odd choice for a single at first, but I've since come around, having considered it more in context. It may not be the album's highlight, but it is immediately accessible and it sounds the most like the Tiger Lou you've come to know, as opposed to the Tiger Lou you thought you knew, the Tiger Lou of "A partial print". Every new album is different than the last and this one is far more austere and opaque than anything he's done before. It's also more grandiose and imposing when taken as a whole, in its intended dosage. Hence, "Crushed by a crowd" gives an easy in; its comforting familiarity allays concerns, the fear of change. And it's also a great song, one I appreciate the more I listen. That's the other thing - "A partial print" is, above all, a grower. It's a big, modern rock record with moments of huge bombast, but fans craving a more intimate connection will need to spend more time digging below the surface looking for a way in. It's there for you if you want it, but it holds you back at arm's length. Trust me though, it's worth it.

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:43:12 -0700

Karin Ström has posted the Özgur Can remix of her latest single "Silent night" on her myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/datadamen
I first heard of Özgur from Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) a few months ago and now I'm seeing his name everywhere. Not that I'm complaining, it's good stuff as you can hear for yourself.

Firefox AK If I were a melody Razzia Records

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700

The recent hyper-popularity of bands like Justice and MGMT has proven that electronica is now a serious player in the music industry, not only with the indie crowd, but the major label industry as well. Firefox AK has been in the game a few years, garnering attention throughout Scandinavia, the British Isles, and Europe, obviously not to the extent of Swedish comrades such as The Knife, but making an impact nonetheless. The follow up to "Madame, madame", "If I were a melody" again proves that Andrea Kellerman has a unique knack for electronic music: bridging the gap between the dancefloor bound compositions and the more contemplative creations by acts such as The Radio Dept. and Junior Boys (whose Matt Didemus mixed "If I were a melody"). "The river" is one of the finest tracks Firefox AK has ever produced, and first single "Winter rose", with husband and consistent collaborator Rasmus Kellerman (better known as Tiger Lou), demonstrates the range of this album, focusing the synth-driven craftsmanship into a more popular vein. An extremely consistent artist, you probably didn't need too much reassurance that Firefox AK's newest effort was worth a small investment - but, in case you did: "If I were a melody" is a fine album.

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:26:56 -0800

Absolut Noise talks to Rasmus Kellerman of Tiger Lou about his forthcoming record "A partial print": http://absolutnoise.blogspot.com/2008/02/interview-tiger-lou.html

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 14:14:42 -0800

Tiger Lou has a found a new person to mix his forthcoming album "A partial print" after his first choice, Peter Katis (Interpol, et al), had to bow out due to work overload. The selection? Sean Beavan, an engineer known for his work with acts such as NIN, Marilyn Manson and Slayer. So in late April Tiger Lou mainman Rasmus Kellerman and album engineer Rolf Klinth will head to LA to put on the final touches. In related news, the lineup for the anticipated "A partial print" remix record has been confirmed. No details are public just yet, but I'll keep you posted.

Interview: Firefox AK

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800

From the very first downbeat of the single "Winter rose", you'll realize that the Firefox AK you knew from "Madame, madame!" has transformed herself into something new. Eschewing guitars in favor of heavy electro beats, Andrea Kellerman has evolved, sounding stronger and more self-assured than ever before. As to what "If I were a melody" will bring when it's finally released later this month, we'll have to wait and see. For now, let us check in with Andrea to see where she's at.
- Avi Roig

So, I understand that the new album was mostly written while in Berlin. Did you move there specifically to work on it or was it more a coincidence of timing? Do you think the city influenced your sound?

I moved there 'cause I wanted a change of scenery and always liked Berlin a lot. But it also worked out perfectly writing-wise 'cause we were isolated from family, friends, jobs and everyday duties which created a world where the only thing that mattered was to write new songs. I'm not sure if Berlin influenced the sound, I think it has more to do with a change in life rather then the city itself. At least I try to convince myself that the album would have sounded the same even if it was created in Budapest, but then again its hard to tell how much one absorb from one's surrounding.

As far as songwriting goes, "Winter rose" has barely any guitar. Can we expect a similar electro/techno vibe for the rest of the album? Also, what's your songwriting process now- do you still find yourself writing melodies on guitar? Or are you working primarily in the digital realm?

I work both ways, the first album was entirely written on a guitar, whereas "If I were a melody" was not, I started to learn Logic and ended up doing songs more based on beats and loops. A difference between the two is also that I now recorded demo versions of all the songs by myself before me and Viktor Ginner started working on them, that gave me time to play around more and try out different things before recording them properly. The sound on the new album is definitely more electro and the melodies harder to grasp.

I don't know how much of a gearhead you are, but would you care to describe your setup? Any particular toys that you're excited about?

I'm not really a gearhead, I always just have the minimum of what I need to get by, but I love my new toy. It is a flanger pedal, I want to use it on every song! Other than that I use an Apple iBook, Logic 8 and Viktor's pre amps and some other of his stuff while we are recording. On stage I use a Fender Blues Jr, some Danelectro pedals, an old vintage Fender Mustang from '65 and a Micro Korg.

How old is your dog Bess now? How much has she changed your life? Also, does she seem to favor either you or Rasmus?

[ed: husband Rasmus Kellerman, aka Tiger Lou]

She's eight months, she's equally divided between me and Rasmus, she definitely stirred some things up and made some quite dramatic changes for both of us. Before, everything was very spontaneous, whereas now life has to be planned perfectly so Bess doesn't have to be by herself, even though she should be able to by now. But I think its good for us, to have someone else to take care of. It makes one grow as a person.

You worked with Matt Didemus of Junior Boys on this album - how was that? Was he your first choice or did you have other people in mind as well?

He was my first choice. I really like Junior Boys and listened to their album a lot during 2006, so when I had the chance to play support for them in England, I was thrilled. During that week we became friends, as Matt is very easygoing and a really nice person – so I just asked if he wanted to mix the album. I flew down to Berlin in late October and we worked almost every day for two weeks. Some of the songs sounded really good from the start and some of them needed some more work. Matt also produced two of the songs.

Besides the familiar names of Assid, Tellevika and Jimmy O, you had Özgur Can do a remix of the new single - how did that come about?

Özgur Can and Rasmus found each other last year and fell in love with each others music, so when Özgur came to Berlin to DJ at the Panorama Bar we met up with him and danced all night long to his set. I think his music is awesome, it's quite hard techno but still very melodious and playful.

Are there any other remixers you are interested in sending tracks to? Anyone else already lined up for future singles?

I've asked some of my favorite artists, but some of them unfortunately haven't replied yet. There are a few that have and are interested, but nothing is definite yet. I had an idea for the second or third single; to only feature remixes done by girls, but we'll see how it turns out, I guess the ones I've asked are really busy. I would be amazed if the likes of The Field and Ellen Allien did a remix.

So what's next then? What's the plan for the next month? 6 months? year?

The album will be released on the 27th of February and the tour starts in March, so there will be some touring for the next few moths and hopefully we'll play some festivals during the summer and I'm longing to move back to Berlin, that will hopefully happen in the next year or so...

LINK: http://www.firefoxak.com/
LINK: http://www.myspace.com/firefoxak

Mon, 24 Dec 2007 14:51:58 -0800

The first single from the new Firefox AK album "If I were a melody" will be "Winter rose". It features a guest appearance from husband Tiger Lou/Rasmus Kellerman and will include b-side remixes from Özgur Can, Tellevika, Assid and Jimmy O. Look for it in mid-January. As for the album itself, it's still due out on February 20.

Top 10s for 2007: Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou)

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800

01. Bess – the wonder dog
A wolf in mix breed's clothing.

02. A Partial Print
Finally connecting the wires and recording album no 3.

03. Skäggaudd – a cabin by the sea
Me, some food, some whiskey, a guitar, a mouse and a sauna for one week. Sheer magic.

04. The Fountain – the movie
If Darren Aronofsky's heart was a kaleidoscope and we could peer through it, this is what we'd see.

05. The Fountain – the original score
The most beautiful music in years. Not plain and not simple.

06. Radiohead
Amazing album, amazing concept/statement.

07. Dexter – Season two
Darkly Dreaming Dexter – the poster boy for askew morality.

08. Moving back to Stockholm
Best thing about it is … we decided to move down to Berlin again!

09. Marilyn Manson – Eat Me, Drink Me
Did you know he had it in him? I did …

10. Portishead – announcing album new album.
Probably next years best album, not counting mine, my wife's and Bess' solo debut.

---------------------------
Rasmus Kellerman is currently recording the new Tiger Lou album "A partial print" for release in 2008.
www.tigerlou.net
www.myspace.com/tigerlou

Column: A Postcard Life #5

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800

I've been starting off all of my correspondence recently with a few rambling lines of apologies, excuses, and explanations for my silence over the past few weeks, and I shall do the same here. Life caught up, as it often does when attempting 20 credits at university and slipping into poor sleeping habits. Luckily the holidays are upon us here in the United States, and I found a wonderful night's sleep last evening, have helped clear out a barn so far today, rattled off some record reviews and other tardy pieces of writing, and am now sitting looking out into firework shocks of red leaves gracing an incline here in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains on a 21° C (70° F) day in November, drinking coffee, finally ready to attempt the much belated 'A Postcard Life' installment number 5.

Ever since hearing Anna Järvinen's exceptional debut solo record a few weeks back, I've found myself slipping fondly back into Granada's catalog. A young woman by the name of Linda played me "Once long ago" in the very early stretch of 2004, when Sweden was still very much lost in its dark, cold days. I remember the wonder I felt then, and still experience in weakening echoes, every time I hear those first few piano notes. A few days after Linda exposed me to Granada, I picked up "Takes a lot of walking" and the self-titled album, probably from one of the myriad records stores in St. Eriksplan. Every few months since then, I find myself 'rediscovering' the band and their material.

While it is escaping me how to say this without seeming dismissive, Granada are one of those bands that I occasionally forget that I was ever introduced to - which happens to plenty of musicians in my iTunes library as I typically do about 5 new record reviews a week - and then jubilantly remember, after seeing their name just before Grand National as I skip along through the artists on my computer or for other reasons. I set about reintroducing their compositions into my day-to-day life as soon as possible, regardless of season (though I do find myself much more susceptible to their emotional currents in the latter, darker half of the year), hearing little intricacies for the first time, marveling at how I let such a talented group slip out of the focus of my life... and then let them slip out of focus yet again. At least now I'll have Järvinen's album to 'rediscover' alongside her previous efforts.

Found out today that Tiger Lou are back in the studio working on their third album. I quickly played through "The loyal" to get myself excited for another effort from Rasmus Kellerman and company. From what I can tell from his blog that Avi linked me up to today, the album probably won't be released until 2008, which is probably for the best. It would break my heart to have to reorganize my Top 10 of 2007 list (which I would almost certainly have to do for Tiger Lou), which has been already been disposed to constant shuffling as this year has proved one of the most fruitful in recent memory. It's A Trap! will be having a Top 10 feature soon, so be sure to keep checking back for that, if only to solidify your Christmas Wish List.

And on that festive note, I shall sign off.

Happy Thanksgiving for all of us Americans preparing to celebrate one of the last acts of kindness between the Native Americans and the European settlers before we stole their land, and a sincere hope that all of you Europeans are keeping your sanity as winter's grip becomes tighter. For the rest of you foreigners, I hope you are well, and that you are keeping your wits about you. It's a strange world out there, and one that is growing weirder…

Until next time,

I remain,

Hopeful (for the first time in a while) and well rested,

/Lars Garvey Laing-Peterson

MP3: Tiger Lou - Sam, as in Samantha

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 11:38:05 -0800

Truth be told, I wasn't terribly impressed when I first heard Tiger Lou via the single "Oh, Horatio". It's a fine song, but it took seeing him live at a random living room show in Oakland for me to really appreciate his talent. Rasmus Kellerman's greatest musical asset is his voice, so to hear his songs distilled down to barebones accompaniment was the revelation I needed. His presence and projection made me hear each song anew. It's not a universal test for all types of music, but if the song works in such a setting, it proves that it's bonified. Listening back to Rasmus' early singles this morning makes me realize how far he's come over the years - what was once a promising young singer/songwriter has developed into a true artist, something that first becomes apparent on today's song selection "Sam, as in Samantha". It's still a dude and his guitar at its core, but it's also imbued with a strong sense of drama that didn't exist before on his early 7"s. It's in the production, it's in the performance. Where he goes next, remains unknown - the songs, the voice will undoubtedly be Tiger Lou/Rasmus Kellerman, but I think he aims to surprise as well. New influences, new perspectives... how could he not? Whatever he does come up with, I'm sure it will be great.

Sat, 03 Nov 2007 22:23:48 -0700

Rasmus Kellerman from Tiger Lou was my guest on this week's radio show and this is what we played:

01. TALK 1
02. Tiger Lou - The loyal
03. Sara Berg - Call me from below
04. Thomas Dybdahl - Maury the Pawn
05. Torpedo - Hospital
06. TALK 2
07. The Je Ne Sais Quoi - Heroica
08. Paris - When I laid my eyes on you
09. Isolation Years - Nurse hands
10. Jennie Abrahamson - Songs we sing
11. TALK 3
12. Firefox AK + Tellevika - Eric
13. Winter Took His Life - Lucky star
14. Knugen Faller - Jag vill inte vara med
15. Favorita - Seven comforts
16. TALK 4
17. Mikael Jonasson - Can you dig this?
18. Lindeberg & Can - Forbidden romance
19. John Dahlbäck - Gas
20. TALK 5
21. Ozgur Can - Changed
22. Aril Brikha - Winter
23. TALK 6
24. Rupesh Cartel - Hide like this
25. Madrugada - Hard to come back
26. Mob - Wait for me
27. TALK 7
28. Tiger Lou - Functions

Torpedo In the assembly line Knievel Records

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0700

The debut record by Sweden's Torpedo has already generated considerable buzz and not without reason. Half of the band are also found in Tiger Lou, and they share that band's dark hypnotic sound. In place of Rasmus Kellerman's low-key approach, however, these guys focus on quirky post-punk artiness. Often it works well, with odd angles complementing seductive grooves in ways both interesting and memorable. When they're good, they're extremely good. But at other times they seem to be trying way too hard for an angular cool and then it just gets annoying. It flows well, but repeated listenings make it more tiresome than revelatory.

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 16:47:42 -0700

Check out Rasmus Kellerman premiering a brand new Tiger Lou song: http://www.rkellerman.com/coalitions.mov
Also note that Rasmus will be my guest on next week's radio show. Not this weekend - that's a special Halloween show, but the week after.

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Rasmus Kellerman aka Tiger Lou is blogging the recording of his new album "A partial print": http://apartialprint.blogspot.com/

Fri, 18 May 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Tiger Lou mainman Rasmus Kellerman and his better half Andrea Kellerman aka Firefox AK are moving back to Stockholm after an extended residence in Berlin. Once back, Rasmus will be going into Matching Head studios with longtime collaborator Rolf Klinth to begin work on his next album.

Mon, 11 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Don't forget to check out all the various top 10s I keep on posting! We've got Going Places from Saturday, Release the Bats! on Sunday and my friend Rasmus Kellerman of Tiger Lou/Araki today.

MP3: Tiger Lou - Until I'm there

Tue, 15 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Today's the day! The new Tiger Lou 7" is available for ordering and I'm offering up the a-side "Until I'm there" as a free download. I had absolutely no expectations when I first started the label component of the It's a trap! empire back in 2004 with the release of KVLR's self-titled album, but here I am with release #4, my very first 7". Forget about all the various sound quality arguments, there's nothing like the touch and smell of fresh vinyl. Listening to record is a way more visceral experience than simply sliding a CD into a changer - you've got to pull it out of it's sleeve, find the proper side to listen to and set it on the turntable before firing it up and setting the needle in the groove to create sound. It's ritualistic and satisfying in a way that digital media can never compare to. I am incredibly honored and humbled to be working with a great talent such as Rasmus Kellerman and Tiger Lou. He's been one of my favorite artists for awhile now and he only gets better with each new release. So enjoy the mp3 and, if you like it, buy the record.

Live report: Marit Bergman + Firefox AK @ Tack! Tack! Tack!, London UK 05/15/06

Tue, 16 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700

London's only truly international club night: flies acts in from abroad, plays music from abroad (or from cyberspace), truly cuts the mustard tonight, matching the amazing with the sublime. The bill was the most exciting to-date, however T!T!T! actually came undone tonight. Marit Bergman put T!T!T! to shame. And why you ask?

Okay, the pre-gig press-ups were one thing, the raw diet of love another, the wicked anecdotes and vivid descriptions in her songs just too good.

You must put into context: Marit Bergman draws on over 10+ years experience, has played everywhere [okay not ev-erywhere...but you know!), according to one on the night: "This is wild, in Sweden Marit can play to 7000 people at the Kalas tours [think: Lollapalooza]". She has a name. But she is much much more than a name, she is an artist, correctly described in the Guardian as "Scandinavia's finest Chanteuse". We agree. Drawing on new material, not relying on old, save "This is the year". It was sold out - and for many it worked, for some not, they needed smash hits/productions not constructions with performance.

In a band? Follow this line carefully: Marit thanked the sound technician, for being a very sound-technican. Magdeline was really pleased that she got a mention / compliment from Marit. Note the attention to detail at such an oft-forgotten level, then think how much is paid to the master task of music? Yes, she is on point Marit is.

Then It's a trap! DJ Per Apelqvist pitches in with: "At some point during her performance Marit made a reference to the bathrooms behind her, the very same bathroom indoctrinated as the back stage, by The Embassy."

Up steps Firefox AK for a super solid, completely confident show. Then someone asked: "have you got a light", of course I said: "over there mate, she is on fire." It went down as well as the subject. Firefox AK worked the crowd, the first stadium-esque handclap sequence, and she bowed to the the backstage toilet area!

It need be said that "The Draft" duet with Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou) is top-ten material. The dynamic, the posture, the delivery, the electric static coming from their cold interaction on stage as they compete for perfection on this song makes for pivitol inclusion. Just brilliant. More than one fashion student in the back moving their hips.

Guest DJ Sweden Made Me Rob was on good lash and form. An hour for T!T!T! and SMM to unite for the night.

There is no other place in London you can go and see great live performances coming out of Sweden that you did last night with DJ's mixing everything from Familjen, Refused, Speaker, Robyn and on and on and on.

What a Monday night shrups and shizzle.

T!T!T! shouts to: La Tour, The Rushes, Consequences, Ruth Moog, Daniel Hansson (Art), Nicolia (Print), Sigmacon (Print), The Social, and SwedenMadeMe Rob, Piers SSS Productions and the mighty dope film crew they are, plus extended Hello's! to: Sounds Of Sweden (good luck!), Razzia Recs, Adrian Recs, and MySpazzers new and old: it snurrar babe it snurrar.
- Jason Christie

MP3: Tiger Lou - Nixon

Tue, 02 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700

"Nixon" is Tiger Lou's latest single. It's also the song I have featured on "Reader's companion volume two". I've made it available as a free download today. I know it should be obvious, but I'll just come out and say it: I love Tiger Lou. I get all misty just thinking about them and the good times we've shared. So much so, that I'm putting my money where my mouth is and will be releasing a Tiger Lou 7" very soon. The a-side will be "Until I'm there" which TL mainman Rasmus Kellerman tells me is his favorite songs from his latest album "The loyal". Good stuff, I assure you. More details soon.

Tue, 02 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700

MP3: Firefox AK - Habibi

Wed, 22 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0800

New mp3 today from Firefox AK off her new album "Madame, madame!". For those of you who have never heard her before, you might recognize her from her duet with Hello Saferide on "Long lost penpal". Or maybe you know her as the wife of Rasmus Kellerman aka Tiger Lou. But I think that's all about to change because this record proves that she can stand just fine on her own. The "What's that sound" EP showed potential, but as American Idol's Randy Jackson would say, this time she really brought it. The songs, the sounds, the vocals - everything is stepped up. This particular track is actually a cover of a song by Assid, one of the many promising young Swedish acts doing new things with old house beats. Good stuff and, as always, if you like it you should buy it. Preorder before March 1 and save a buck - the price goes up on the release date.

Wed, 22 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0800

MP3: Tiger Lou - The loyal

Wed, 26 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0700

The first truly great release of this fall season is Tiger Lou's "The loyal". The record is a bit darker in tone than his previous records, but as always, he just keeps getting better and better with each new release. The songwriting, the playing... everything is stepped up a notch. The only word I can think of to aptly describe it is "sublime". It doesn't hurt that Tiger Lou mainman Rasmus Kellerman is simply an excellent human being as well. Same goes for the rest of his bandmates (who are also in the band Torpedo). I love all you guys. Anytime any of you find yourself in the Pacific Northwest, give me a call okay?

Wed, 26 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0700

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

Tiger Lou mainman Rasmus Kellerman reports that he's just about finished recording his new album "Loyalist". Mixing is being delayed until July because of engineer Peter Katis' busy schedule, but in the meantime Rasmus says he'll start work on a new Araki album - his more electronic-based solo project.

Mon, 28 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0800

Check out the website for Las Puertas, the sideproject of husband/wife duo Andrea (Firefox) and Rasmus Kellerman (Tiger Lou): http://www.combatdisc.com/laspuertas/
Their debut full-length is out now via Combat Rock and a split 12" with Torpedo is due out later this summer via Germany's Riptide Recordings.

Fri, 11 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0800

Check out a video interview with Mr. Tiger Lou himself, the always charming Rasmus Kellerman: http://www.faceculture.nl/tiger/index.htm

Streaming playlist: Singer/Songwriters, pt. 2

Sun, 08 Feb 2004 00:00:00 -0800

DATE ADDED : 02.08.04
LAUNCH : [stream no longer available]

01. José González - Hints
from the album "Veneer"
He's already taken Sweden by storm and it's only a matter of time before you see José's name everywhere. I thought I heard Nick Drake's ghost when I first heard this track on the "Crosses" EP. A prime example of there being truth to the hype: José's elegant fingerpicking and soft vocals are something special. The UK is next in line to fall under his spell and the US can't be too far to follow. Of all the artists covered, this is most definitely one of the top ones worth looking into.

02. Evil Tordivel - Where the sun never sets
from the album "A fine young man"
Norway excels at cultivating interesting artists like this. Evil Tordivel aka Petter Alexander Olsen resists all attempts to classify. Just when you think you've got him pegged, the next song comes on and throws you for a loop. He calls it "kaos and pop" himself and I think that might as well work. Sadly, his eclecticism also means his music can be a bit hit and miss, but never, ever boring. He's obviously very talented. Recommended for people who sometimes like their music to be quirky and maybe even a bit challenging.
This song shows Evil's more serious side and I think it's the kind of stuff that suits him best.

03. Tiger Lou - Sam, as in Samantha
from the "Trouble and desire" EP
Every new release from the Tiger aka Rasmus Kellerman shows tremendous growth as he gets stronger and stronger with his talent. Besides simply being an extremely charming individual, he's got a great ear for vocal arrangements. This track from his latest EP barely even scratches the surface of what he's capable of. That's why you need to hear his new album "Is my head still on?" Another one to keep your eye on.

04. Kristofer Åström - Leaving song
from the album "Leaving songs"
Kristofer was previously best known for fronting the indierock band Fireside before he branched out on his own. When he's doing his own thing, he gets to expose a whole different side of himself and his emotional vulnerability. Everything he does is very much in the fine Scandinavian melancholic musical tradition, especially the stunning "Northern Blues" album. He puts most so-called alt-country artists to shame. Most seem overly concerned with adhering to the stylistic trappings of the genre, but Kristofer has no use for such pretension. When listening to his music, you don't get the sense of someone trying to be something they're not or putting on airs. He simply is.

05. David & the Citizens - Glued to the light
live from P3
While they aren't strictly a singer/songwriter group, they are very much powered by frontman David Fridlund and his energetic, enigmatic vocals. This performance proves their inherent worth by stripping out everything except that which matters most: the lyrics and the song. My understanding is that the band truly shines in the live setting and while they're records are decent, the studio sessions have yet to truly capture them at their best.

06. Carpet People - A road leading into the sun
from the album "More bad weather coming out of the rain"
I won't rest until I feel like these guys get the respect they deserve. Another group that's not exactly under the singer/songwriter banner, but very much powered by the writing and vocals of frontman Anders Hellmans. While some bands build up walls of production between them and their audience, the Carpet People tear those barriers down so all you get is the raw, fragile emotional core. Their last album easily stayed in my top 10 all last year and I still think it's going to be a long time before I hear anything that can match it. At least until their next album.

07. Stina Nordenstam - So Lee
from the album "This is Stina Nordenstam"
I don't know how to go about summarizing the amazing talent of Stina Nordenstam. She's already pretty well known worldwide, but at the same time she really isn't. She doesn't perform live and she doesn't do interviews. All that we have is her fantastic music. I hear rumors of a new album on the way and I hope it's true.

08. Sergeant Petter - Urban dreams
from the album "It's a record"
Another dude from Norway who I confess I don't know much about, but I know this song is great. His latest album "It's a record" tends to be a bit too alt-country for my tastes, but fans of Wilco and such should definitely investigate further. And just like with Wilco, there's a couple exceptional songs that stand out and make Sgt. Petter an artist worth checking out. When he gets uptempo and lets himself rock out, it's unstoppable.

09. Uncle's Institution - 2003 (so far)
from the "Everything a man can dream of" EP
Another young singer/songwriter from Norway with loads of charm and a quirky sense of humor. Uncle's Institution is Egil Olsen of Norway and he calls his music 'sweet n sour' which is pretty apt. Oft compared to Eels, he manages to emote feelings of both silliness and melancholy. Not everyone can write a song like "Santa Claus is gay", after all. This track shows his sweeter and more reflective side. Whether goofing off or doing a Beatles-esque ballad, it's all good.

10. Isolation Years - Preacher/songwriter
from the album "It's golden"
Okay, these guys aren't exactly singer/songwriters either, but it's lyrically on-topic at least.
It took me about a year to really get into this record, so I've taken it upon myself to champion it. It deserves a second chance. IY take the best elements of Northern Sweden melodic rock and combine it with a dose Nordic and Russian folk for something that's truly special in the end. Undeniably one of the best bands in Sweden today, if not the world.

Thu, 26 Jun 2003 00:00:00 -0700

Tiger Lou has a new website which includes a bunch of mp3s for downloading. As mentioned before, Tiger Lou is the most recent signing of Startracks Records and is essentially the solo act of Rasmus Kellerman from the bands Araki and Music By Em.

The new Bear Quartet album will be named "Angry Brigade" after the English anarchists of the 70s.

Fri, 18 Apr 2003 00:00:00 -0700

Glad Påsk! Happy Easter! Happy Passover! Hope you enjoy your holiday weekend!

Watch the video for "Long Beach" from Laakso: high / low

Startracks has announced a new signing - their first since picking up the Loosegoats in '96. And the lucky band is Tiger Lou aka Rasmus Kellerman. He used to be in EM/Music By EM, but has now gone solo. His first show ever with a backing band is at Popaganda fest in Stockholm on May 30, but he's also hitting the road by himself:

4/21 - Lübeck D Cafe Brasil
4/22 - Oldenburg D Alhambra w/Karate, One Man and His Droid
4/23 - Hamburg D Molotow w/Me Without You
4/24 - Köln D Underground w/Karate
4/25 - Wolfenbüttel D Juz Harztorwall w/Karate
4/26 - Konzert Geschlossene Veranstaltung
4/27 - Freiburg D KTS w/NRA, Oil
4/28 - TRIER D Ex-Haus
4/29 - Aflenz A Sublime
4/30 - Wien A Shelter w/Karate
5/01 - München D Kafe Kult w/Karate
5/02 - Leverkusen D Pentagon
5/07 - Stockholm S Lava w/Lova and Dexter's Moon

Look for a 4-song EP in May/June. More info here.

For a limited time you can view the new Fireside video for the song "All You Had". Manne Lindvall filmed it and Leif Andree stars. Very entertaining.

Nicolai Dunger has booked himself a couple new gigs around the UK:

5/27 - Nottingham Rescue Rooms w/Matt Elliott (solo)
5/28 - Brighton Albert Inn (solo)
5/29 - London Union Chapel w/The Frames (band)

NorthSide Records has posted mp3s for two new albums that are coming out June 3. First is "Vettoi" (excerpt) from Hedningarna and their new CD "1989-2003", a best-of collection that includes a couple new tracks. Next is "Mikkel Per / Kus Erik" from Frifot's new album "Sluring". If you're curious about tracing the roots of Nordic music, I strongly encourage you the check this stuff out.

Uppsala Hio-hop duo Allied Forces have their debut 12" coming out soon. It'll be called "Ögon I Nacken" and will feature a guest appearance from Highwon and production from Masse.

The Sounds are now booked to play the outdoor stage at Gröna Lund in Stockholm on June 18. The rest of the acts confirmed so far for the venue this summer are:

4/30 - The Soundtrack of Our Lives, The Ark, Mando Diao (view poster)
5/9 - Melody Club
5/23 - Dilba vs. Stephen Simmond

In case you weren't already aware, the pop group Alcazar worked together with the Pet Shop Boys to write some new songs. Here's an short interview/article from Expressen on the subject. (in Swedish) Oh, and feel free to catch 'em on tour too:

4/18 - Ö-vik, Parken (S)
4/19 - Höör, Jägersbo (S)
4/23 - Stockholm, Company Party (S)
4/25 - Sälen, HC (S)
5/03 - Sölden, Snowmove (Austria)
5/10 - Amsterdam (NL)
5/15 - Nurnberg (Germany)
5/24 - Jönköping, Rix FM (S)
5/27 - Stockholm, Company Party (S)
5/30 - Umeå, Festen (S)
5/31 - Gislaved, Sigges Loge (S)
6/06 - Stockholm, Gröna Lund (S)
6/07 - Eringsboda Brunn (S)
6/08 - Sätela (S)
6/18 - Neubrandenburg, NDR (Germany)
6/19 - Bad Arolsen, Festival (Germany)
6/26 - Ludvika, City Festival (S)
6/27 - Enköping, City Festival, (S)
6/28 - Klagenfurt, Cityfestival (S)
7/02 - Sundsvall, Gatufesten (S)
7/12 - Tidan, Olstorp (S)
7/18 - Sölvesborg, Hanöhus (S)
7/19 - Bergen, NDR (Germany)
7/25 - Borlänge, Rommehed (S)
7/26 - Sunne, Fryksdalsdansen (S)
7/27 - Eskilstuna, Parken (S)
7/28 - Zurich, Pride (Switzerland)
7/30 - Ellös, Parken (S)
7/31 - Bromölla, Dagarna (S)
8/02 - Stockholm, Pride (S)
8/15 - Paris, NRJ (France)
8/16 - Gothenburg, Liseberg (S)
8/17 - Berlin, NRJ (Germany)
8/30 - Östervåla, Parken (S)
9/06 - Pasewalk, NDR (Germany)
11/01 - Bryssels, Company Party (Begium)