IT'S A TRAP! Scandinavian Music Journal

MP3: WE - Kickin'

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 15:56:05 -0800

WE was running high in the site search charts for awhile now and it inspired me to pull out the first thing I ever heard from them, the 2003 "Lightyears ahead" EP. No surprise: it still kicks major ass. Or major teeth, if you follow the lyrics. As soon as I heard this song and I knew I needed these guys to round out the lineup of my first comp, "Reader's companion vol. 1". I'm not sure what they're up to nowadays, but I wouldn't be surprised if a new album showed up soon - it's been just over a year since the last one, so we're definitely due. Anyhow, much respect! Feel-good music for a feel-bad Friday!

MP3: Cortex - Shark boys die hard

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 11:30:36 -0800

Question: Is the "Popular Searches" list at the bottom of the page self-perpetuating or does it realistically reflect current artist popularity? Do people click out of curiosity or are the results more organic? I'm really not sure. I know Moto Boy rose through the ranks the day his music box was announced. And Anna Ternheim's recent Grammy wins are good reason to be popular. But what about some of the others? WE? Haven't heard much from them in quite some time. But I am stoked to see Cortex in the list, though a bit confused. Are people as into the band as me? Or are they curious about Freddie Wadling's forthcoming solo joint? What's the deal? But while we're on the subject, I might as well brag that I finally scored a copy of their 1986 LP "You can't kill the boogeyman". It's some weird Euro pressing and the sleeve is not in perfect shape, but the vinyl is good and that's really all that matters. Oh, and it wasn't that expensive either - another bonus. Now I just need some charitable soul to sell me an affordable copy of "Spinal injuries" and I'll be set. Help me out people! In the meantime, here's a track from "You can't kill...". Perhaps not their strongest work, but still quite good.

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 19:13:26 -0700

Norwegian rockers and "Reader's companion" alums WE are doing a batch of German headlining gigs starting in late May:

05/30 - Backstage, München (GER)
05/31 - Subway, Chemnitz (GER)
06/01 - Logo, Hamburg (GER)
06/02 - Zeche Carl, Essen (GER)
06/03 - Museumskeller, Erfurt (GER)
06/04 - Beatpol, Dresden (GER)
06/05 - Nachtleben, Frankfurt (GER)
06/06 - Loppen, Copenhagen (DK)

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:36:21 -0800

This week's top 20 Norwegian album chart:

01. Madrugada - Madrugada
02. Secret Garden - Inside I'm singing
03. Sie Gubba - Sånn e livet
04. Bertine Zetlitz - In my mind 1997-2007 Best of
05. Madcon - So Dark the Con of Man
06. Anne Nørdsti - Livli på låven
07. Venke Knutson - Crush
08. Celine - Bæstevænna
09. Hellbillies - Spissrotgang
10. The Margarets - Twenty Years Erased
11. WE - Tension & Release
12. Vidar Johnsen & Peter Nordberg - Ord & Øgonblick
13. Kurt Nilsen - Push push
14. Henning Kvitnes - Stemmer i gresset
15. Valkyrien Allstars - Valkyrien Allstars
16. Nora Brockstedt - Nora - For Swingende
17. Solveig Slettahjell - Domestic songs
18. CC Cowboys - På Svalbard uten strøm
19. BigBang - Something Special - The Best
20. Erik og Kriss - Verden vil bedras

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:33:08 -0800

MIC Norway on the album "Tension and release" from "cosmic bikers"/"Reader's companion" alums WE: http://www.mic.no/mic.nsf/doc/art2008011613285764012359

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 10:51:04 -0800

The nominees for this year's Spellemanprisen (the Norwegian Grammy) have been announced:

Female artist:
Ane Brun - Live In Scandinavia (Det Er Mine/V2)
Christel Alsos - Closing The Distance (Sony BMG)
Sissy Wish - Beauties Never Die (Sony BMG)
Susanne Sundfør - Susanne Sundfør (MBN)

Male artist:
Kenneth Ishak - Silver Lightning From A Black Sky (Division Records As)
Magnet - The Simple Life (Sony BMG)
Sivert Høyem & The Volunteers - Exiles (Hektor Grammofon)
William Hut - Nightfall (Universal Music AS)

Pop group:
Blind Archery Club - The Union (Sony BMG)
Superfamily - Warszawa (Propeller Rec.)
The Royalties - The Royalties (Blister Music)
Vidar Johnsen & Peter Nordberg - Ord Og Ögonblick (Sony BMG)

Electronica:
Alog - Amateur (Rune Grammofon)
Diskjokke - Staying In (Smalltown Supersound)
Salvatore - Days Of Rage (Racing Junior)

Rock:
BigBang - Too Much Yang (Warner Music/Grandsport Records)
Moving Oos - Peace And Love (Kong Tiki Records)
My Midnight Creeps - Histamin (MMC Records)
Raga Rockers - Übermensch (EMI/Pilot/Virgin)
The Lionheart Brothers - Dizzy Kiss (Racing Junior)

Country:
Hellbillies - Spissrotgang (EMI Music Norway)
Hemisfair - Blue Blue Grass Of Home (Wilma Records/Playground Music)
Shit City - God Bless Our Home (Voices of Wonder)
Steinar Albrigtsen - Moment Of Peace (Sony BMG)

Metal:
Audrey Horne - Le Fol (Indie Recordings)
Dimmu Borgir - In Sorte Diaboli (Nuclear Blast)
Mayhem - Ordo Ad Chao (Season Of Mist)
Red Harvest - A Greater Darkness (Season Of Mist)

Hip-hop:
El Axel - It Is Wha It Is (Pass It Records)
Madcon - So Dark The Con Of Man (Bonner Amigo)
Tommy Tee - No Studio No Time-The Wait (Tee Productions)

Folk:
Berit Opheim - Den Blide Sol (NorCD AS)
Ragnhild Furebotten - Endelig Vals (Talik Da)
Sigrid Moldestad - Taus (Heilo)
Trio Mediaeval - Folk Songs (ECM/Grappa)

Jazz:
Fossum-Aarum Quartet - F.A.Q. (Schmell)
Jon Balke - Book Of Velocities (ECM/Grappa)
Petter Wettre - Fountain Of Youth (Household Records)
Sharp Nine - Sudoku (The Real Thing Da/Staffan)
The Core - Office Essentials (Jazzland)

Open class:
Frode Haltli - Passing Images (ECM/Grappa)
Live Maria Roggen - Circuit Songs (Jazzland)
Pust - Femkant (Pust Records)
Shining - Grindstone (Rune Grammofon)
The Source - The Source Of Christmas - Live (Grappa Musikkforlag AS)

Best music video:
Dimmu Borgir - The Serpentine Offering (Nuclear Blast)
Heroes & Zeros - A Strange Constellation (Nightliner/Universal)
My Midnight Creeps - Don`t Let’Em Bring You Down (MMC Records)
Turbonegro - Do You Do You Dig Destruction (Scandinavian Leather Recordings)
WE - Hurdy Gurdy (Nun Music)

Best Newcomer:
Christel Alsos - Closing The Distance (Sony BMG)
Heroes & Zeros - Strange Constellations (Nightliner/Universal)
Susanne Sundfør - Susanne Sundfør (MBN)
Tine Thing Helseth - Haydn/Hummel/Albinoni/Neruda (Simax Classics)
Valkyrien Allstars - Valkyrien Allstars (Heilo)

Best song:
Kurt Nilsen - "Push Push" (Sony BMG)
Madcon - "Beggin'" (Bonnier Music)
Postgirobygget - "Tidløs" (EMI Music Norway)
Sichelle - "Fuck Deg" (Eccentric Music)
Venke Knutson - "Holiday" (Universal)

Read more: http://www.spellemann.no/

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 15:25:09 -0800

WE has confirmed that their new album "Tension & release" will be released in Norway on January 21, GAS on January 25 and Sweden/Finland/Denmark on January 28 with Europe and North America to follow. In addition to the previously announced limited edition CD/DVD combo, it will also be available in an extra-special 3xLP box which will include bonus tracks, a poster and an etched side. There will only be 666 copies for Norway and another 666 for Europe, so act fast if you want one.
In other news, the video for band's new single "Hurdy gurdy" is now on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WS9UAm_nJU

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 17:25:46 -0700

WE's next single "Hurdy gurdy" will be released in Norway on November 12 on 7" vinyl, CD and digital along with a video. The exclusive b-side of "RNR (I put my life)" was recorded live at Quart Festival in 2004. Said single will also be released in Scandinavian and GAS in January, preceding the new album "Tension & release" later the same month. The limited edition version of said album will also include a 30-min DVD doc filmed during the band's tour with Motörhead last year. Watch a trailer at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/cosmicbikerrock

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Nun Music and Big Dipper are teaming up to release WE's new single "That's why (you're so fine)" on 7" vinyl b/w a cover of the Roky Erikson song "Cold night for alligators". It will be out in August.

Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700

There's a new video teaser from Norwegian "Reader's companion" alums WE up on myspace from their forthcoming live DVD: http://www.myspace.com/cosmicbikerrock

Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 -0700

Preview the new single from Norwegian rockers and "Reader's companion" alums WE: http://www.nunmusic.com/releases.php
It's called "That's why (You're so fine)" and will officially be released on June 18.

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0800

Nun Music, the label founded by the dudes in WE, and German label Rodeostar Records have joined forces and their first collaborative effort will be copromoting Norwegian hardrockers Jaqueline across Europe. The single "Medicine man" will be released in April to coincide with a tour and the full album "Reaping machines" will follow sometime around August. Read more: http://www.nunmusic.com/

Wed, 03 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0800

Norwegian hard-rockers WE have started work on a new album with the hopes to have a new single out around late May/early June.

Mon, 27 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Norwegian rockers WE are posting all of their various vinyl-only tracks on myspace, posting new ones every few weeks: http://www.myspace.com/cosmicbikerrock

Thu, 16 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Norwegian rockers WE will begin recording a new album at Hangaroundsounds in Oslo on January 2. The band has about 30 new songs written and will be testing out a few on their upcoming tour supporting Motörhead.

Fri, 10 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800

MIC Norway profiles WE as they prepare to embark on their European tour supporting Motörhead: http://www.mic.no/mic.nsf/doc/art2006111010312385793087
The band's song "Catch electrique" was featured on my own "Reader's companion volume one".

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian rockers WE will support Motörhead on tour in Germany and France beginning in late November. Dates here: http://www.werock.org/live.php
The band plans to unveil a bunch of new material from their forthcoming seventh album, so watch out.

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

Watch as Norwegian rockers WE are presented with new stage-clothes: http://www.grapheine.com/bombaytv/play_uk.php?id=1542397

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian hard-rockers Jaqueline have posted a few new sample tracks from their new album "Reaping machines" on their new website: http://www.jaquelineband.com/
The record comes out August 21 via Nun Music, the label founded by the dudes behind WE, another excellent heavy Norwegian act (see "Reader's companion volume one" for a sample).

Wed, 10 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian rockers Jaqueline have finished mixing their new album "Reaping machine" and the first single "Medicine man" is now available for download on myspace: http://www.myspace.com/jaquelineband
The band is the first signing of Nun Music, the label founded by the dudes in WE (see "Reader's companion volume one"). The new album comes out in September.

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0700

Nun Music, the label run by the dudes in WE, has announced the signing of fellow Norwegian rockers Jaqueline. Their new album, tentatively titled "Reaping machines" will be released in early September.

Tue, 28 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Upcoming tourdates for Norwegian rockers WE:

02/28 - Logo, Hamburg (GER)
03/01 - Underground, Cologne (GER)
03/02 - Kl. Backstage, Munchen (GER)
03/04 - Mudd Club, Berlin (GER)
03/06 - NRK 1, Store Studio, Oslo (NOR) No Limits Tour w/Ralph Myerz and the Jack Herren Band
03/09 - Samfunnet, Bodø (NOR) No Limits Tour w/RMatJHB
03/10 - Studentersamfundet, Trondheim (NOR) No Limits Tour w/RMatJHB
03/11 - Rockefeller, Oslo (NOR) No Limits Tour w/RMatJHB
03/12 - Aulaen, UKEN 06 Bergen (NOR) No Limits Tour w/RMatJHB
03/18 - Emos (SXSW), Austin, TX w/Turbonegro, Hellacopters, more
03/19 - Spaceland, Los Angeles, CA w/Serena Maneesh
03/20 - Echo Lounge, Los Angeles, CA w/Serena Maneesh
03/28 - Columbiahalle, Berlin (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
03/30 - Club X, Herford (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
03/31 - Schlachthof, Wiesbaden (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/01 - Werk 2, Leipzig (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/03 - Soundgarden, Dortmund (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/04 - Live Music Hall, Cologne (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/05 - Longhorn, Stuttgart (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/07 - Tonhalle, Munich (GER) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/08 - Linz Posthof (AUS) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/09 - Vienna Arena (AUS) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/11 - Xtra, Zurich (CH) w/Monster Magnet, Witchcraft
04/15 - AOL Arena, Sea Devils NFL Game, Hamburg (GER)
05/16 - Debaser, Stockholm (SWE)
06/03 - Rock Am Ring Festival (GER)
04/04 - Rock Im Park Festival (GER)
04/03 - Wacken Open Air, Dörpstedt (GER)

Fri, 17 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Check out the new e-card/microsite promoting Norwegian hard-rockers WE: http://www.cosmicbikerrock.com/
The band's most recent album "Smugglers" keeps getting wider release in new territories all the time, with GAS on April 21 to be followed by Sweden on May 17. These guys are IAT approved - "Catch electrique", the first single from "Smugglers", was included on "It's a trap! reader's companion volume one".

Fri, 27 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Besides hitting up SXSW, Norwegian hard-rockers WE will also play a couple LA shows with countrymates Serena Maneesh:

03/19 - Spaceland, Los Angeles
03/20 - tba, Los Angeles

Tue, 24 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Norwegian management/PR firm Bpop has decided to jump into the label business. They will now take it upon themselves to import their acts into neighboring Sweden via the newly founded imprint Bpop Music. Here's what they've got scheduled:

02/15 - Jim Stärk - "Jim Stärk"
03/15 - JR Ewing - "Maelstrom"
04/26 - Real Ones - "Home With The Girls In The Morning"
05/17 - WE - "Smugglers"
06/14 - Datarock - "Datarock Datarock"
07/12 - Vidar Vang - "Vidar Vang"

Distribution will be handled by V2 Scandinavia.

Wed, 11 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Norwegian hard-rockers WE are joining forces with dance act Ralph Myerz & the Jack Herren Band on a new EP to be called "Sky is the limit". The acts collaborate on two of the songs and each contribute one individual song apiece. Tracklist:

01. Sky is the Limit (WE/Myerz)
02. Deepred (Myerz/WE)
03. My Private Night (Myerz)
04. 7 AM (WE)

It comes out February 13 via WE's own label Nun Music.

Fri, 16 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0800

Nun Music is taking Norwegian hardrockers WE worldwide and has licensed their latest album "Smugglers" for release in GAS in April via German label Rodeo Star and in Sweden in May via V2. No word yet on a US or UK release, but I figure it can't be too far behind. In case you didn't know, WE is one of the many fine acts appearing on the "It's a trap! reader's companion" CD. Read more: http://www.nunmusic.com/

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian hard-rockers WE continue their international expansion by taking on France. Their most-recent excellent album "Smugglers" will be released over there on August 8 via Bad Reputation and the band will follow-up with two gigs in support in September. Dates:

09/17 - Le Festival des Grosses Guitarres, Lyon
09/18 - La Maroquinerie, Paris

Thu, 16 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0700

Due to unfortunate circumstances involving printing errors at the pressing plant, WE, along with labels Kick Music and Nun Music, have decided to pull the Danish edition of thier latest album "Smugglers" and will instead release it over there in September. Look for a new single to released over there in October to coincide with some new concert dates.

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

Norwegian hardrockers WE continue their quest to take over the world by extending their reach into Denmark this week with the release of their acclaimed album "Smuggler" on Kick Music. They'll be playing one show over there this summer as well, on May 30 at Stengade 30 in Copenhagen.

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

Check out the excellent video for "Cosmic biker RnR" from Norwegian rockers WE: http://www.werock.org/video/high/?v=32
It's pretty much everything you'd expect from a song with that title.

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

The winners of this year's Spellemannsprisen - the Norwegian equivalent to the Grammy - have been announced. Here's a few of the highlights:

Spellemann of the year: Odd Nordstoga
Male artist: Odd Nordstoga - "Luring"
Female artist: Sissy Wish - "You May Breathe..."
Newcomer: Annie - "Anniemal"
Video: Margaret Berger - "Lifetime Guarantee"
Pop group: The National Bank - "The National Bank"
Jazz: Solveig Slettahjell - "Silver"
Electronica/contemporary: Lars Horntvedt "Pooka"
Rock: WE - "Smugglers"
Metal: Enslaved - "Isa"
Open class: Frode Fjellheim - "Aejlies gaaltije - the sacred source"

Mon, 07 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0800

The winners of Norway's 2005 Alarm Awards:

Best electronica album: Ralph Myerz & The Jack Herren Band - "Your New Best Friends"
Best pop album: Annie - "Anniemal"
Best metal album: Enslaved - "ISA"
Best jazz album: Lars Horntvedt - "Pooka"
Best video: Kings of Convenience - "I’d Rather Dance With You"
Best song: Euroboys - "One-Way Street"
Best hip hop/rap album: Jaa9 & OnklP - "Sjåre Brymæ"
Best rock album: WE – "Smugglers"
Best live band: WE
Best newcomer: Annie
Alarmjuryens pris: Jim Stärk

For a full list of everyone who was nominated, go here: http://www.nrk.no/magasin/upunkt/musikk/4316676.html
Don't forget that both WE and Jim Stärk are featured on the "It's a trap! reader's companion" compilation which can be had for a mere $6. More info on the right.

Thu, 27 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0800

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

01. Lars Winnerbäck - Vatten under broarna
02. Dark Tranquility - Character
03. The Ark - State of the Ark
04. Lena Philipsson - Det gör ont en stund på natten men inget på dan
05. Anna Ternheim - Somebody Outside
06. Fernandoz - Minnenas allé
07. Daniel Lindström - Daniel Lindström
08. Magnus Uggla - Den tatuerade generationen
09. Christian Walz - Paint by Numbers
10. Lasse Stefanz - Röd Chevrolet
11. Benny Anderssons Orkester - Bao!
12. Soundtrack of Our Lives - Origin vol. 1
13. Peter Jöback & Göteborgs symfoniker - Storybook
14. Uno Svenningsson - Ett andetag från dig
15. Melody Club - Face the Music
16. Totta Näslund - Totta 7: Soul!/På drift
17. Marie Fredriksson - The Change
18. Björn Afzelius & Mikael Wiehe - 1993 - Malmöinspelningarna
19. Arne Domnérus - Best of Dompan
20. Gyllene Tider - Finn 5 fel!

DJ Martian has the scoop on the 'Fresh Air at Fabric' one-day Norwegian music festial in London featuring performances by a wide range of artists including Annie, Magnet, Nils Petter Molvaer, Satyricon, Biosphere, WE and much more: http://djmartian.blogspot.com/2005_01_01_djmartian_archive.html#110677852973580507
Definitely something not to be missed.

Tue, 11 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0800

Upcoming live dates for the might Norwegian hard-rockers WE:

01/13 - Rockefeller, Oslo (NOR)
01/20 - Blæst, Trondheim (NOR)
01/21 - Hydranten, Hamar (NOR)
01/22 - Baråtti, Strømmen (NOR)
01/28 - Valdres, Vang (NOR)
02/05 - Alarm Awards + 30 min latenight show, Oslo (NOR)
02/17 - TBA, New Dehli (IN)
02/20 - Great Indian Rock Festival, New Dehli (IN)
03/03 - Fabric, London (UK) w/Satyricon, Madrugada
04/15 - Trondheim International Filmfestival, Trondheim (NOR) (WE vs. Körkarlen)
07/22 - Sjonstock Festivalen, Mo i Rana (NOR)
07/23 - Bukta Festivalen, Tromsø (NOR)

Remember, they're one of the many fine acts on the "It's a trap reader's companion" compilation and they've been collecting a bounty of awards and nominations these past few weeks for their newest album "Smugglers". I shouldn't have to say it again, but it's an amazing record and I'm sure it'll be getting some sort of international release in the very near future.

Fri, 07 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0800

The nominees for the 2005 Spellemannspris, Norway's equivalent to the Grammy, have been announced. Here's a selection of the categories:

Female artist:
Maria Solheim - "Frail"
Sissy Wish - "You May Breathe..."
Bertine Zetlitz - "Rollerskating"

Male artist:
William Hut - "Versus the End of Fashion Park"
Sondre Lerche - "Two Way Monologue"
Odd Nordstoga - "Luring"

Pop act:
Kings of Convenience - "Riot on an Empty Street"
The National Bank - "The National Bank"
Savoy - "Savoy"

Rock:
Gluecifer - "Automatic Thrill"
Gåte - "Iselilja"
Span - "Mass Distraction"
Tellusalie - "Tangerine Dreams"
WE - "Smugglers"

Electronica/contemporary:
Biosphere - "Autour de la lune"
Deathprod - "Morals and dogma"
Lars horntveth - "Pooka"
Lasse marhaug - "The shape of rock to come"

Metal:
Black Debbath - "Den femte statsmakt"
Enslaved - "Isa"
Mayhem - "Chimera"

Hip-hop/R&B:
Jaa9 & Onklp - "Sjåre brymæ"
Madcon - "It's all a madcon"
Tungtvann - "Iii:folket bak nordavind"

Jazz:
Børre Dalhaug - "Bigbandblast!"
Sharp 9 - "No:network"
Skomsork - "Skomsork"
Solveig Slettahjell - "Silver"
Petter Wettre - "Hallmark moments"

Open category:
Frode Fjellheim - "Aejlies gaaltije - the sacred source"
Karl Seglem - "Femstein"
Trygve Seim - "Sangam"
Susanna and the Magical Orchestra - "List of lights and buoys"
Transjoik - "Uja nami"

Music video:
Margaret Berger - "Lifetime guarantee"
Illumination feat. Anneli Drecker - "Kool karma"
Jim Stärk - "Morning song"
Kings of Convenience - "I'd rather dance with you"
Bertine Zetlitz - "Fake your beauty"

Newcomer of the year:
Annie - "Anniemal"
Margaret Berger - "Chameleon"
Madcon - "It's all a madcon"
Side Brok - "Høge brelle"
Span - "Mass distraction"

Hit of the year:
Erik Faber - "yesterday's call"
Jim Stärk - "Morning song"
Kurt Nilsen - "My street"
Odd Nordstoga - "Kveldssong for deg og meg"
Ravi & Dj Løv - "Dødsøt"

Winners will be announced on February 26. Read more: http://www.mic.no/mic.nsf/doc/art2005010714073264546578

Top 10s for 2004: IAT! writers

Wed, 29 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Simon Thibaudeau - Top 10 music moments of 2004:

01. Mogwai live (Kicked my ass pretty hard)
02. Haunted - rEVOLVEr (See my full review on the site, best thrash record in some time)
03. WE - Smugglers (ROOOOCCKKK!)
04. Tricky Woo live (If you don't know, you should)
05. The Dears - Protest EP and live (Best live "experience" of the year, EP ain't too bad either)
06. Shalabi Effect - Pink Abyss (How they can improv this record is beyond any comprehension)
07. Controller Controller - History (Still one of Canada's best kept secrets, indie-pop that makes your ass move without your knowledge)
08. In Slaughter Natives - Resurrection (Still the cream of the genre)
09. Lederhosen Lucil live (So much fun, I soiled myself)
10. Devendra Banhart - Nino Rojo (Simple, perfect)

Simon Tagestam - Top 10 Swedish records of 2004:

01. The Tough Alliance - Make it happen (EP)
02. Jens Lekman - Rocky Dennis in heaven (EP)
03. Jens Lekman - When I said I wanted to be your dog
04. Sounds Like Violence - The Pistol (EP)
05. Mattias Alkberg BD - Tunaskolan
06. David Sandström - The dominant need of the nedy soul is to be needed
07. Promoe - The long distance runner
08. Stina Nordenstam - The world is saved
09. Jens Lekman - You are the light (EP)
10. David Fridlund - Amaterasu
11. Chandra - Summer in the sun (EP)
12. The Honeydrips - Save me (7")
13. Alf - Augustibrev
14. The Tough Alliance - Holiday (EP)
15. Heikki - 2
16. Raymond & Maria - Vi ska bara leva klart
17. Marit Bergman - Baby dry your eye
18. Gustav Kjellvander - Proudly Presents the Fine Arts Showcase & the Electric Pavilion
19. Niccokick - Awake from the dead, my dear best friend
20. Starmarket - Abandon time

Matthew W. Smith - Top 11 Scandinavian music moments of 2004:

01. The Accelerator Big One in Stockholm--great bands, much better weather than last year.
02. Kings of Convenience - Riot On An Empty Street album. I'm really looking forward to seeing them for the first time in February.
03. The Hives and Sahara Hotnights on the same bill at the 9.30 Club in Washington, D.C.
04. Another successful shopping spree at Sound Pollution in Stockholm--lots of selections, right in the heart of Gamla Stan.
05. Two heavy metal guys screaming their way through a Madonna song at a karaoke bar in Helsinki--probably the funniest thing I saw all year.
06. An import of the "Bigtime" single by The Soundtrack of Our Lives showing up fairly cheaply at my local independent record store--a hint of good things to come.
07. The Flaming Sideburns stealing at least the first half of a very big show--the 40-band extravaganza that was Little Steven's Underground Garage Festival in New York City. What a travesty they got to play only two songs...
>08. Tiger Lou - Is My Head Still On? album. Good songs and a full sound. "Oh Horatio" is one of my favorites.
09. Nina Persson of The Cardigans singing "You're the Storm" while cradling a Swedish Chef doll given to her on the last night of the Chicks with Attitude tour. I guess you had to be there. It was great to see The Cardies back in North America for the first time in a great while...
10. The song "I Burn Myself On You" by the Lionheart Brothers, as featured on Avi's It's a Trap! compilation. Simply stunning...
11. Suburban Kids with Biblical Names - #1 EP. Loads of talent and potential there...

Nick Levine - Top 10 Scandinavian albums of 2004:

01. Radio Dept. - Lesser matters
The album that just won't die. An updated take on shoegazing that teachers the originators a new trick or two.
02. Concretes - s/t
Its beauty is in its subtlety and understated mystery. A real slow burner.
03. Annie - Anniemal
Perfect pop. Laden with songs Kylie would kill for, and production from both Richard X and Royksopp. I expect this to crossover to a massive mainstream audience next year.
04. Kings Of Convenience - Riot on an empty street
In 2004 Erlend and Eirik returned from the wilderness. On this longplayer the Kings broaden their musical palette to include bossa nova and (shock!) drums.
05. Jens Lekman - When I said I wanted to be your dog
A great up-and-coming singer songwriter. His lyrics are slightly indebted to the anti-folk movement. I'm slowly coming round to the Magnetic Fields comparison.
06. The Soundtrack Of Our Lives - Origin I
Did you think that TSOOL were going to let you down? Really?!
07. The Legends - Up against the Legends
Modern take on C86. Bundles of energy.
08. Tiger Lou - Is my head still on?
Woozy production with quality instrumental backing. A cult audience beckons.
09. Moneybrother - Blood panic
White soul that isn't embarrassing to listen to in public.
10. Suburban Kids With Biblical Names - #1 EP
Introductory EP from these Swedish newcomers. Quirky pop of the highest order.

Navy Keophan - Top ten albums (Scandinavian and non-Scandinavian) of 2004:

01. Henry Fiat's Open Sore - The parallel universe of... (Coldfront)
Hardcore punk fury with '60s-inspired catchiness.
02. Division of Laura Lee - Das not compute (Burning Heart/Epitaph)
DOLL never fails to impress and they did so with what I consider to be one of the "sleeper" hits of 2004.
03. Knugen Faller - Skellefte stadshotell EP (Cage Match Federation)
Catchy punk-pop from the north of Sweden.
04. The (International) Noise Conspiracy - Armed love (Burning Heart)
Producer Rick Rubin pushes them to their limit and they show that they can still rock.
05. The Hives - Tyrannosaurus Hives (Interscope)
I don't care what anyone else says about The Hives but I still think that this album was good. I think their label handled the promotion for it wrong but that's another story.
06. Euroboys - Soft focus (Virgin Norway)
With a dash of '70s-inspired California pop and the Beach Boys for good measure, it keeps that feeling of summer all year long around here (although in Southern California, it isn't that hard...)
07. Bruce Banner - I've Had It With Humanity (Busted Heads)
Hardcore punk in the last couple of years has its fair share of greatness and mediocrity. Bruce Banner is not the latter. Intense hardcore from the north of Sweden with vocals by Per and Bobo (ex-DS-13).

The non-Scandinavian part of the top ten:

08. The Chinese Stars - A rare sensation (Three.One.G.)
Disco beats, hypnotic, dissonant guitars, groovy bass lines and a singer who sounds like he never left puberty all add up for a fun time.
09. Some Girls - All My Friends Are Going Death (Deathwish)
I remember the first time hearing this and not being really impressed. Fast forward to six months later and this is some of the best stuff I've heard all year from the genre. The lyrics are thoughtful and the sound is like a kick in the chest.
10. Ludacris - Red light district (Def Jam)
HA! Bet you guys weren't expecting this album here. If there is one thing I like, it's intelligent hip-hop/rap that is done right and Ludacris is a genius. On his latest effort, Ludacris brings the catchiness and sensibility back again.

---------------------------

Top 10s for 2004: It's a trap!

Fri, 24 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Top 10 albums of 2004 (in alphabetical order):

There has been a tremendous glut of fantastic music in 2004; too bad I never got a chance to hear it all. I've got a long list of acclaimed albums that I've yet to sink my teeth into and I have no doubt that this would turn out quite differently had I the time and opportunity to investigate them. So, keeping that in mind, here's my top picks for the year. Hope you like it!

01. Kristofer Åström - Loupita (Startracks)
Have I beaten this horse to death yet? Acoustic albums are inherently risky because your flaws and weaknesses are left totally exposed and that's exactly why this album works so well. There's nowhere to hide and Kristofer never falters: great songs and superb performances. The outstanding vocal work of up-and-coming singer/songwriter Britta Persson seals the deal. Absolutely sublime.
[purchase album]

02. Marit Bergman - Baby dry your eye (BMG)
There's a reason this is ending up on so many year-end lists: it's far and away the best pop album released in 2004. There's something so endearing and charming about Marit that she's just irresistible. And I'll be damned if "Adios Amigos" isn't one of the year's best singles.

03. C.Aarmé - s/t (Burning Heart/Carcrash/Epitaph)
Sharp and fierce, like a knife. No frills, just fury.

04. The End Will Be Kicks - If you see them tell them I love them (Chalksounds)
Mid-90s Norrland guitar rock resurrected! Dense melodies and brilliant guitar interplay are what make this one of the most immediate debuts in recent memory. There's more greatness in these four songs than in many band's whole discographies.

05. Fun - Szklarska poreba (If Society)
Sure, it's derivative of classic Chicago rock like Jesus Lizard/Rapeman/Big Black/etc., but those bands are gone now and nobody has come close to stepping up and taking their place. Until Fun. I knew these guys were awesome the moment I heard the first song I downloaded from their website.

06. Gåte - Iselilja (Warner Norway)
It's music like this that reminds me of why I started Itsatrap. Nordic folk is naturally heavy and powerful when electrified and Gåte knows how to achieve the perfect balance between the old and the new.

07. Peter, Bjorn and John - Falling out (Planekonomi)
This record caught me a bit off-guard by being much more of a downer than their self-titled debut. I was expecting power-pop anthems, but instead I got a somber, thoughtful concept album. The hooks are still huge and plentiful; they're just smarter and more mature. That also means they are not quite so immediate, however it makes them stronger and more satisfying in the end.
[purchase album]

08. Silverbullit - Arclight (NEG/BAM)
Thank goodness- a hugely anticipated album that not only meets expectations, but also exceeds them. This record took way too long to come out, but oh man, was it worth it. The sounds are rooted in 80s retro, but the overall feeling is anything but.

09. The Soundtrack of Our Lives - Origin I (Telegram/Warner)
Album #4 and they're still going strong. This is classic rock, emphasis on classic.

10. Sophie Zelmani - Love affair (Columbia)
Such a great example of how music can be subdued and fragile, but still remain evocative and powerful. Think Emmylou Harris crossed with Stina Nordenstam.

Honorable mentions (Scandinavian):
01. Cult of Luna - Salvation (Earache)
02. Division of Laura Lee - Das not compute (Burning Heart/Epitaph)
03. Eskju Divine - Darkness all around (Imperial)
04. Giant Robot - Domesticity (Stupido)
05. José González - Stay in the shade (Imperial)
06. Sivert Høyem - Ladies and gentlemen of the opposition (Virgin Norway)
07. Koma - Tsunami (Blackstarfoundation/Fullsteam Recordings)
08. Meshuggah - I (Fractured Transmitter Records)
09. Stina Nordenstam - The world is saved (A Walk in the Park/V2)
10. Pan Sonic - Kesto (Mute)
11. David Sandström - The dominant need of the needy is to be needed (Mofab Teg)
12. The Solution - Communicate! (Wild Kingdom)
13. Tiger Lou - Is my head still on? (Startracks)
14. The Tiny - Close enough (Determine Records/Eyeball Records)
15. WE - Smugglers (Nun Music)

Honorable mentions (other):
01. Ben Christophers - The spaces in between (Cooking Vinyl)
02. Converge - You fail me (Epitaph)
03. Mare - s/t (Hydrahead)
04. The Paper Chase - God bless your black heart (Kill Rock Stars)
05. Woven Hand - Consider the birds (Glitterhouse/Sounds Familyre)

Thu, 23 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Norwegian newspaper Dagsavisen lists their 40 top albums for the year, leaning heavily on domestic releases: http://www.dagsavisen.no/nyetakter/article1380678.ece
WE comes in at #3 making them their top Norwegian pick for the year. Don't forget that you can hear them on the "Reader's companion" compilation.

Fri, 10 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Here's the confirmed tracklist for that tribute comp to the Norwegian club Last Train:

01. Team Spirit - Ain't it fun?
02. Turboneger - Bloodstains
03. American suitecase - Barely flying
04. Gluecifer - You keep me up all night
05. Madrugada - Slip inside this house
06. Bonk - Hello mummy
07. Anal Babes - Neighbour's dog
08. The Tables - Chase the rainbow
09. WE - Cold night for alligators
10. King Midas - Going home
11. Euroboys - ST 100/6
12. Amulet - Rock for light
13. Die die die - Damage
14. The Time Lodgers - Here we go again
15. Big Bang - Carousel
16. Astroburger - Kano
17. Sister Rain - That's all
19. Wonderfools - Closing time
20. Max Cargo - Sideturns (live)

The disc is called "No music requests" and comes out December 13.

Thu, 09 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0800

The nominees for Norway's Alarm Prize have been announced:

Video:
Ugress - Manhattan Sapphire
Sondre Lerche - Two Way Monologue
Ravi & DJ Løv - Dødsøt
Wibutee - We Are In Space, So Are You
Kings Of Convenience - I'd Rather Dance With You

Rock:
Gåte - Iselilja
International Tussler Society - s/t
Gluecifer - Automatic Thrill
Euroboys - Soft focus
WE - Smugglers

Pop:
Thomas Dybdahl - One Day You'll Dance For Me, New York City
Kings of Convenience - Riot on an empty street
Minor Majority - Up for you and I
Annie - Anniemal
Bertine Zetlitz - Rollerskating

Metal:
Red Harvest - Internal Punishment Programs
Khold – Mørke Gravers Kammer
Mayhem – Chimera
Enslaved – Isa
Darkthrone – Sardonic Wrath

Hip-hop/rap:
Tungtvann - III: Folket Bak Nordavind
Jaa9 & OnklP - Sjåre Brymæ
Gatas Parlament – Fred, frihet & alt gratis
Karpe Diem – Glasskår
Madcon – It’s All A Madcon

Electronica:
Ralph Myerz & The Jack Herren Band - Your New Best Friends
Mental Overdrive - 083
Snuten with friends - We Are The Future
Ost & Kjex - Some, But Not All Cheese Comes From The Moon
Illumination - The Poppy Rocks

Jazz:
Scorch Trio - Luggumt
Lars Horntveth - Pooka
Wibutee - Playmachine
Susanna & The Magical Orchestra - A list of lights and buoys
The Thing - Garage

P3 prize for best song:
National Bank - Tolerate
Annie - Chewing Gum
Jim Stärk - Morning Song
Kings Of Convenience - I’d Rather Dance With You
Euroboys - One Way Street

Live:
Gåte
Tussler
Thomas Dybdahl
Ralph Myerz
WE

Newcomer:
Samsaya
Bonk
Samsaya
The Beautiful People
Annie

Winners will be announced February 5, 2005. Go here for more info and to vote: http://www.alarmweb.org/

Tue, 07 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Check out a stream of the new WE video "Sassy Zazie" featuring Norwegian model Aylar: http://www.werock.org/video/31_high.ram

Mon, 29 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Norway's JR Ewing are back in the studio recording a new album with producers Kåre Chr. Vestrheim (Jaga Jazzist, Gluecifer, Gåte) and Mike Hartung (Satyricon, Savoy) and will also be tracking guitars with Don Dons of WE. The band plans to do fifteen songs that they say "represent a new side of JR Ewing," and are "simply the best songs we've ever written." There's no label confirmed yet, but expect a release sometime early next year.

Streaming playlist: In rotation

Sun, 28 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0800

DATE ADDED : 11.28.04
LAUNCH : Real / Windows

Tracklist:
01. Tigerbombs - 1000 sparks
02. The Solution - Would you change your mind?
03. Peter, Bjorn and John - Tailormade
04. Desert Planet - Shadow of the assassin
05. Henrik Levy - The teacher
06. The Tiny - Closer
07. Kashmir - The aftermath
08. The Lionheart Brothers - The sun in my eyes
09. Wild Evil Entertainment Dept. - Nosebleed
10. Gåte - Rike rodenigår
11. The Soundtrack of Our Lives - Transcendental suicide
12. Silverbullit - Only gold
13. C.Aarmé - You're a dead box
14. WE - Smugglers

Tue, 02 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0800

"Sassie Zazy" has been selected as the second single from WE's latest album "Smugglers". A video was shot recently by director KP starring Iranian supermodel Aylar and shot be airing shortly.

WE Smugglers Nun Music

Thu, 28 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0700

You like your guitars sound fat and dirty? You happen to like most of Orange Goblin's discography? You like a band that throws you a curve ball once in a while? WE are the band for you. The curve balls that they send your way this time around are straight indie rock songs as well as one of the best ballad I have heard this year. Let's not forget that the band rocks more than is probably necessary.

Tue, 19 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian hardrockers WE will contribut a cover of the Roky Erikson song "Cold Night" to the upcoming Last Train`s 20th anniversary compilation, which I now understand is to be called "No Music Requests". No word on a release date, but it should be out soon. Oh, and don't forget to check these guys out on the "Reader's companion" comp as well.

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0700

Nun Music, the label founded and run by the guys in WE, now has their full website online: http://www.nunmusic.com/

Mon, 27 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0700

WE's latest album "Smugglers" went straight to #1 in Norway when it was released last week, selling more copies than their last two albums combined. Pretty amazing, eh? Of course, I'm stoked to have them on the "Reader's Companion" compilation which I was just informed should be ready and on it's way to me within the week. Great band, great album, totally worth checking out. Their success is well-deserved. Up next for the guys is a tour of Norway and here's what they've got booked so far:

10/01 - Hawk, Fredrikstad (NOR)
10/02 - Blå, Oslo (NOR)
10/08 - Scene 37, Horten u 18 (NOR)
10/14 - Blå Rock, Tromsø (NOR)
10/20 - tba (NOR)
10/21 - Flytten, Haugesund (NOR)
10/22 - Hulen, Bergen (NOR)
10/23 - Storebø Grendahus, Austevoll (NOR)
10/27 - Meieriet, Sogndal (NOR)
10/28 - Stud Samf, Volda (NOR)
10/29 - Studentenes Hus, Gjøvik (NOR)
10/30 - Felix, Lillehammer (NOR)
11/05 - Dolby, Tønsberg (NOR)
11/12 - Club 3, Asker u18 (NOR)
11/13 - Ridderspranget, Vågå (NOR)
11/19 - Rockefeller, Oslo (NOR)
11/25 - Martin's, Lillestrøm (NOR)
01/21 - Hydranten, Hamar (NOR)

Tue, 07 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0700

WE has enlisted Tariq as their fifth member. He contributed so many orchestral parts with various moogs, mellotrons and clavinets on the new album "Smugglers", they figured they might as well hire him on. Head on over to the band's website for the first batch of confirmed Norwegian tourdates: http://www.werock.org/live.php

Thu, 02 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0700

In anticpation of the new album "Smugglers", WE has unveiled a new website: http://www.werock.org/
Not many bands can write a 10-minute epic on the international drug trade, but WE can and does.

Tue, 31 Aug 2004 00:00:00 -0700

See the video for the new WE single "Catch Electrique": low / high
In case you didn't notice, this track is one of the many fine tunes that will appear on the upcoming "It's a trap! reader's companion volume one" compilation that I'm putting out.

Tue, 17 Aug 2004 00:00:00 -0700

Head over to the Nun Music website to stream a sample of WE's new single "Catch Electrique": http://www.nunmusic.com/
The Norwegian hard-rockers release their excellent new album "Smugglers" on September 13.

Thu, 24 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian hard-rockers We shot a video for the song "Catch Electrique" yesterday with actress Ane Dahl Torp at a racetrack right outside Oslo. I presume that track will be the lead single from the just-completed new album "Smugglers", due out this coming fall.

Wed, 09 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0700

Norwegian rockers We will release their new album "Smugglers" in Norway on September 13. The album is produced by the band with help from Chriss Goss. Guests appearances include Euroboy and Chris Summers from Turbonegro, Chris Goss and Danny Young from Gluecifer.

Tue, 06 Jan 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Norweigan hard-rockers We are still busy in the studio working on overdubs and they report that they've been blessed with guest appearances from Jai Shankar, Chris Summers (Oslo Motherfuckers), Anders Møller (Euroboys), Euroboy (Turbonegro), Danny Young (Gluecifer) and more. The band also plans to tour Europe in support on their latest release "Lightyears Ahead" in March and we should have dates confirmed soon.

Mon, 05 Jan 2004 00:00:00 -0800

Here's most of the nominees for the Spellemannprisen, Norway's answer to the Grammy:

Female pop soloist:
Lene Marlin - "Another Day"
Karin Park - "Superworldunknown"
Bertine Zetlitz - "Sweet Injections"

Male pop soloist:
Julian Berntzen - "Waffytown"
Thomas Dybdahl - "Stray Dogs"
Magnet - "On Your Side"

Pop group:
D'Sound - "Doublehearted"
Ephemera - "Air"
Number Seven Deli - "Falkner Street"

Electronica:
Snuten - "Welcome to the Jungle"
Ulver - "Teachings in Silence"
Xploding Plastix - "The Donca Matic Singalongs"

Rock:
Amulet - "Danger! Danger!"
Ricochets - "The Ghost Of Our Love"
Thulsa Doom - "And Then Take You To a Place Where Jars Are"
Turbonegro - "Scandinavian Leather"
We - "Lightyears Ahead"

Blues/Country:
Vidar Busk - "Love Buzz"
Amund Maarud - "Ripped, Stripped and Southern Fried"
Tumbleweed - "Once More, With Feeling"

Metal:
Dimmu Borgir - "Death Cult Armageddon"
Enslaved - "Below the Lights"
Old Man's Child - "In Defiance of Existence"

Hip-Hop:
Diaz - "Velkommen Hjem Andres"
Equicez - "State of Emergency"
Paperboys - "The Great Escape"

Jazz:
Atomic - "Boom Boom"
Toe Brunborg Quartet - "Gravity"
Karin Krog - "Where You At?"
Christian Wallumrød Ensemble - "Sofienberg Variations"
Håvard Wiik - "Postures"

Open class:
Anne-Lise Berntsen/Nils Asheim - "Kom Regn"
Hallvard Bjørgum & Co- "Free Field"
Motorpsycho/Jaga Jazzist Horns - "In the Fishtank"
Niko Valkeapää - "Niko Valkeapää"
When - "Pearl Harvest"

Music video:
Diaz - "Hvem er denne karen"
Folk og Røvere - "Utadæsjælåpplevelse"
Kaizers Orchestra - "Evig Pint"
Thomas Dybdahl - "Cecilia"
Bertine Zetlitz - "Girl Like You"

Best newcomer:
Julian Berntzen - "Whaffy Town"
Equicez - "State of Emergency"
Rebekka Karijord - "Neophyte"
Kurt Nilsen - "I"
Karin Park - "Superworldunknown"

Best song:
Maria Arrendondo - "In Love With An Angel"
David - "Wild At Heart"
Folk og Røvere - "Utadæsjælåpplevelse"
Lene Marlin - "You Weren’t There"
Kurt Nilsen - "She’s So High"

Go here for the rest: http://www.nrk.no/musikk/3399677.html

Fri, 19 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0800

Norweigan hardrockers We are currently in Hangaroundsounds studio in Oslo with American producer Chris Goss (Masters of Reality, Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss). Read more: http://www.dagsavisen.no/kultur/2003/12/770191.shtml (in Norweigan)
There's also some pics from the proceedings posted on their website: http://www.werock.org/

Mon, 01 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0800

Madrugada, one of Norway's biggest bands, plays a one-off gig in London tonight at The Metro to try and raise some awareness about the UK-release of their latest album "Grit" on Music for Nations. Check out the flyer here. The UK version of the album also has a different tracklist than the original, featuring just seven songs from the Norweigan version. Members Frode, Sivert and Robert with the thought that they'd rather provide a much broader overview of the band's sound as opposed to just the new tracks. Here's what they came up with:

01. Blood Shot Adult Commitment
02. Ready
03. I Don't Fit
04. Madrugada
05. Majesty
06. 7 seconds
07. Lucy One
08. Hands Up - I Love You
09. Got you
10. Belladonna
11. Ready To Carry You

It's also got a new cover that you can view here. The band hopes to come back for a full UK tour in January, but I don't have anything confirmed yet.

In other news, the band reports that they are hard at work on new material and practicing 6-7 hours a day. They should hopefully have something out by next autumn, but nothing's been set yet. Ah, but they do have a confirmed new release coming up! They'll be doing a split EP tribute to revered psychedelic rocker Roky Erickson together with We, another Norweigan band I really like. Madrugada does the 13th Floor Elevator song "Slip Inside This House" and it should be out soon on Black Balloon Records. And in related news, Sivert's sideproject The Opposition have their debut album coming out in February and they will tour Norway in support soon after in March. While not turning out as singer/songwriter-esque as he originally imagined, he says it's "pop, the way I perceive that pop should be like" and is incredibly proud of the way it sounds. And last but not least, on December 9, Sivert will take part in a Johnny Cash tribute album recording at, where else but Kretsfengsel avd. A prison in Oslo with the inmates as the audience. Very cool. Other artists set to take part include Thomas Dybdahl, Magnet, Steinar Albrigtsen, Paal Flaata from Midnight Choir and Øystein Greni from Big Bang and it should be out in either late January or early February.

Sat, 15 Nov 2003 00:00:00 -0800

We - "Lightyears Ahead" (Black Balloon)
Norway's We mines classic hard-rock, kinda in the same way that Soundtrack of Our Lives does. They both obviously borrow heavily from their forbearers, but both manage to bring it all together in a way that includes the group's own personality and makes it unique. Whereas TSOOL tends towards straight-up rock n' roll and psych-rock, We is more heavy metal and borrows more from the Black Sabbath/Led Zeppelin end of the 70s rock spectrum. Yeah, there's some obvious T. Rex riffing going on too, but there's also a bit of a late-era Beatles thing going on, albeit slightly heavier. The instrumental transition tracks on this EP are cool too - I really like how it helps everything flow together, though the bong hit opening is a bit silly. I'll definitely be keeping my eyes on these guys.

Tue, 29 Apr 2003 00:00:00 -0700

A grand total of 100 (!!!) new bands were confirmed for Roskilde Fest today. Some of the acts mentioned include The Cardigans, Christian Kjellvander, Immortal, The Hellacopters, TSOOL, Satirnine, Gåte, Turbonegro, The Sounds, Cato Salsa Experience and The Raveonettes and a plethora of Scandinavian hip-hop artists: Advance Patrol (SWE), Denmarks Finest (DK), Equicez (NOR), Loose Cannons (SWE), Mad Con (NOR), Organism 12 (SWE), Son Of Light (NOR), Static & Nat Ill (DK) and Suspekt (DK). Read more.

Did you miss Hardcore Superstar last night at Chalmers in Göteborg? Well, you can watch a video of the song "Honey Tongue" from that performance.

Lullacry has postponed the release of their new single "Alright Tonight" to May. No reason was given for the delay.

Norway's Gluecifer has announced a couple dates for this summer:

05/31 - Jæren, NOR
06/06 - Working Class Hero Festival, Drammen NOR
08/16 - Raumarock festival Åndalsnes NOR

The band also reiterated their plans to come back to the US, hopefully this coming fall. Their exact words from the website: "For our very patient fans in the US... we are R E A L L Y looking forward to coming back & playin' for y'all!!!!!"

New Line Records has finally launced a website which of course has info and downloads for label darlings The Sounds.

Misconduct has been confirmed for the Kaktus Festival which will take place at an airfield in Arboga on July 18-19. Other artists playing include The Venue, Peter, Björn and John, The Virtues and Charta 77.

Stockholm Records artists Thee Ultra Bimboos are doing a few dates around Scandinavia in May:

05/02 - Västerås, Rockstad Västerås (Culturen)
05/03 - Malmö, KB
05/04 - Oslo, So What
05/05 - Göteborg, Pusterviksbaren
05/07 - Hultsfred, Metropol
05/08 - Stockholm, Nalen

Motorpsycho is planning a Japanese tour for December, but there's no details yet. Their side-project The International Tussler Society will also be doing some shows around Norway in August such as the Øya festival in Oslo on August 7-9. There may be some dates in Europe, too. Stay tuned.

Silence Records has put up a streaming sample of "Happy Endings" from First Floor Power.

In other Silence-related news, Träd, Gräs & Stenar are heading over to England to two dates in England and Brighton on May 21 and 22 respectively. The full list of their upcoming dates:

05/21 - London, 291 Gallery w/No-Neck Blues Band
05/22 - Brighton w/No-Neck Blues Band
05/28 - Västerås, Taj Mahal
05/29 - Oslo, So What
07/19 - Möja (Stockholm archipelago)

Watch the video for "New Direction" from David & the Citizens.

Turbonegro has announced the addition of a new gig at the Garage in London on May 12. Here's what their upcoming European tour itinerary now looks like:

04/30 - Göteborg, Lisebergshallen
05/01 - Stockholm, Munchen Bryggeriet
05/02 - Malmö, KB
05/03 - Hamburg, Grosse Freiheit, DE w/Division of Laura Lee
05/04 - Hamburg, Grosse Freiheit, DE w/DoLL
05/06 - Amsterdam, Melkweg, NL w/DoLL
05/07 - London, Garage, UK w/DoLL
05/08 - Glasgow, King Tuts Wah Wah Hut, UK w/DoLL
05/09 - Manchester, Hope & Grape, UK w/DoLL
05/10 - Birmingham, Acedemy 2, UK w/DoLL
05/11 - Dublin, Whealans, IRL w/DoLL
05/12 - London, Garage, UK w/DoLL
05/13 - Paris, La Tranbendo, F w/DoLL
05/15 - Bergara, Sala Jam, E w/DoLL
05/16 - Madrid, Aqualung, E w/DoLL
05/17 - Barcelona, Apolo, E w/DoLL
05/19 - Milano, Transilvania, IT w/DoLL
05/20 - Zurich, Rote Fabriek, CH w/DoLL
05/21 - Stuttgart, Longhorn, DE w/DoLL
05/22 - Munchen, Elserhalle, DE w/DoLL
05/23 - Köln, E-werk, DE w/DoLL
05/24 - Bielefeld, PC 69, DE w/DoLL
05/25 - Berlin, Columbia halle, DE w/DoLL
05/27 - Stavanger, Siddishallen
05/28 - Bergen, Haukelandshallen
05/29 - Trondheim, Trondheim Spektrum/Nidarøhallen
05/31 - Oslo, Oslo Spektrum

Due to an undisclosed family emergency, Millencolin has been forced to cancel the remaining dates on the second leg of their US tour to return back home to Sweden.

MTVE.com has the new video for "You're the Storm" from The Cardigans.

If you didn't already see it listed, Robyn is doing some touring this summer:

06/28 - Gamleby, Folkets Park
07/05 - Sundsvall, Sundsvalls Gatufest
07/23 - Tylösand, Hot Tylösand
07/24 - Hudiksvall, Stadsfesten
07/25 - Gävle, Rocknatta
07/26 - Piteå, Piteå Dansar och Ler
08/02 - Östersund, Storsjöyran
08/10 - Göteborg, Liseberg
08/15 - Stockholm, Gröna Lund

Here's a MIC Norway profile on Sondre Lerche with links to a number of interviews such as the CNN one linked here yesterday. Among other things, it says that Lerche is featured on the cover of this month's Index Magazine and he is also currently in Bergen, Norway working on his new album with producer Jørgen Træen (aka Sir Duperman). Look for him on tour in the US in May with Nada Surf and Ed Hartcourt.

Also by way of MIC Norway come this article on the Music Export Norway showcase as South by Southwest in Austin last March. Featured bands included the aforementioned Sondre Lerche, Madrugada, Ralph Myerz & the Jack Herren Band, Cadillac, Span and We.

This is pretty amazing: Junior Senior - "Move Your Feet". Definitely not the sort of thing I'm normally into, but that video is just too awesome.

Did you know the last Saturday in May is 'Swedish Music Day'? Me neither.

The following acts have been confirmed for the Siesta fest in Hässleholm on May 30-31: The Ark, Marit Bergman, Dynamo Chapel, David & The Citizens, Christian Kjellvander, $1000 Playboys, Her Majesty, Whyte Seeds, Last Days Of April, Lotta Wenglén Band, Joddla med Siv, Pete Thompson, Loserville plus a number of yet-to-be-named demo bands.

Lars Winnerbäck, Mikael Wiehe and Wilmer X have all been added to the bill of the Piteå Dansar Och Ler fest.

Entombed-side project Project Hate has set "Hate, Dominate, Congregate, Eliminate" as the name of their new album. Look for it later this year from Entombed's own Threeman Recordings label.

Dimmu Borgir has lined up a couple dates in the Netherlands for October:

10/02 – Amsterdam, NETH @ Paradiso
10/03 – Tilburg, NETH @ 013

In other news, the band has reportedly spent the last few weeks at Studio Fredman recording a new album. No word on when to expect it.

Fri, 06 Dec 2002 00:00:00 -0800

Oh man, Mikkey Dee from Motörhead pulls no punches! Read what he has to say about Hammerfall:

Look at a band like Hammerfall and shit. They're going through the roof. When kids come up to me and say "Iron Maiden, they're almost as good as Hammerfall," there's something wrong, you know? I saw two kids with Iron Maiden-shirts, in Stockholm when me and Lemmy were there doing press, and I was sitting in the lobby waiting to get to the airport and I saw two eleven-year-olds with Iron Maiden t-shirts and I said, "Yeah, that's a great band you've got there" and they said, "Yeah, they're almost as good as Hammerfall, they sound exactly the same."

Then you realize there's something wrong here, you know. It's not a shit band, but it's incredible that they can hit the way they did. Anders is a great friend, and I hope to see Jens tonight. Someone told me that the Stratovarius guys are here. And the bass player, Magnus, he was the first bass player in Geisha. I fired his ass. He's an old friend since 25 years ago. So I'm glad for Magnus, and I'm glad for Anders. And Stefan is a good guy, the bald guitar player, he's good, but Joacim and Oscar, they can suck my cock. Because they really think they're god's gift to the planet, and I used to say don't shit on the ladder because you're going to climb on it on the way back. They pissed me off too much, let's say two years ago, by being rock stars. I've done this now for 22 years, around the world, and I'm no fucking rock star, I'm a normal guy, and I have a million friends around the world. They did a couple of fucking club shows and they were being the biggest rock stars you've ever seen in Gothenburg. It pissed me off because they were treating me almost the same way, and I said you should kiss my ass instead of throwing me out of the dressing room, you know? So I was pissed off. And Anders and Magnus, they had a long talk with Joacim and Oscar and said "Mikkey is really fucking pissed." So Oscar called me and he apologized and says he was so scared every time I showed up anywhere, and I said, "Oh, I'm not going to beat you up but you're still a fucking asshole." So they're like that when they see me. But I don't agree with that; I have a problem to see these fucking guys when they play one year then they're bigger than Mick Jagger. And the way they became big is by ripping off Helloween, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, even King Diamond stuff. I hear a complete rip off of some harmonies that are complete King Diamond stuff... And Helloween. And Accept. So, I mean, good luck to them, because I'm glad Magnus finally has a band, because he lived in an apartment of 27 square metres, for almost 20 years. He never had any money, he always played bass, he always stuck to his hard rock, and then he got a chance. I remember him calling me and saying, "Mikkey, I'm playing with a band called Hammerfall soon and we're going to do a tour," and I go, "Fucking great for you, Magnus." And then when Anders came into the band, he's a great drummer, that other guy was a fucking joke. So I'm happy for them. But I just can't agree on this rock star image, especially Oscar.

Read the rest of the interview with Metal Rules here. He actually talks a bit about the Scandinavian hard rock scene and dishes some dirt on W.A.S.P. and King Diamond, too.

The nominees for Norway's Alarm Awards have been announced. A sampling of the categories:

Pop: Jim Stärk, Monopot, Loch Ness Mouse, Hello Goodbye, and Thomas Dybdahl
Rock: We, JR Ewing, Gluecifer, Madrugada, and Gåte
Metal: Satyricon, Immortal, Red Harvest, Khold, and Arcturus
Live: Turbonegro, Jaga Jazzist, Gatas Parlament, JR Ewing, and Ralph Meyers & the Jack Herren Band

The Moonbabies report that they are now 3/4 of the way through recording their new album. It's scheduled for a March release on Chalksound in Europe and A Bouncing Space Recordings in the US. Here's a bit of what they had to say about it:

The new album sounds (at this point) like a hybrid between the more melodic parts of "June and Novas" and something totally colorful, new and unexplored. I definitely think we'll break some new ground with it. We started with a lot of songs and are on our way to narrowing down to twelve, or thirteen tracks. Funnily enough right now, we are working on an album of songs with no names. Unimaginary working titles like "apples" and "fear" are what we call the songs until they get finished lyrics and a real name, and it has been really hard to come up with the right titles for the this album. The best one's so far I think are "Bang goes another day" and "Fieldtrip U.S.A"... those I am proud of.

The band also finished their first ever video for the song "Over My Head". Filmed by the Swedish production company Colony and shot in Malmö, you can view it right here. (Requires Quicktime)

TSOOL is now confirmed to be entering the studio in January to work on their next record. Of course, you should have already suspected as such, but now we've got an official statement. As for their upcoming appearance on Late Night with David Letterman, frontman Ebbott had this to say:

"Being on the show will hopefully make a breakthrough easier, but you never know what effect these things have. But it's great fun!"

A Saturday Night Live appearance is apparently in the works, too. Pretty exciting!

Check out some new tunes in Real Audio from the folks at Promopop: By Heart - Catchy Music / The Leeches - World's End

Win some exclusive Motorpsycho stuff from NRK Stereo. (In Norweigan)

Recording of the new Entombed record is already beginning to wrap up. Expect a March release on Music for Nations.

Even more Entombed related news:

The band's Threeman Recording label is actually starting to get down to business. Entombed-side projects Murder Squad and The Project Hate MCMXCIX will be the first releases. There's also plans to do vinyl versions of the albums "Uprising" and "Morning Star".

Project Hate has parted ways with vocalist Mia Ståhl. That means they're looking for replacement female singer. Check their website for more details.

Washoe has apparently changed their name to Alpha Safari.

Uffe's old band Haystack has plans to do a one-off reunion gig in the near future. No date yet, but here's the band's lineup: Uffe - Guitar, vocals; Johan (Backyard Babies) - Bass; Jonas (The Maggots) - drums