Pascal
Galgberget
Novoton
Ever since the 2006 debut "Förbi fabriken", this three-piece combo has been associated with The Jesus and Mary Chain and sure, I see where that's coming from. However, I'm more inclined to name The Cramps as a major influence. The naïve and primitive musical approach that is the trademark of said band is also a large part of Pascal and of "Galgberget" in particular. Each song featured is an attack that when combined, forms an unstoppable force of distortion, reverb and repeating lyrics. The lyrics are, in their simplicity, superb and maybe it's just because they are that simple, it makes them so good. For example, take the first tune "Stort och vackert" wherein they sing (translated) "I'm gonna build something big and beautiful/that I can crush you with." That right there are the only words to that song. The "less is more" device is integral to the whole record and I can cope with that. Especially when it's done this well! Dealing with love, suicide, Elvis ("Min enda vän"), the lyrics accompany the dark and sometimes gloomy music perfectly. And the cover of Judas Priest's "Painkiller" ("Smärtstillande") is awesome! If you're only gonna buy one Swedish punk rock album this year, be sure to buy this one. A good time is guaranteed.
- Jonas Appelqvist
