IT'S A TRAP! Scandinavian Music Journal

Tsukimono - Field hollers 2000 - 2010

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0400

I had this idea; my idea was this collection.
This collection presents the music of Johan Gustavsson made under the Tsukimono moniker. It's meant to work as a "beginner's guide" as well as a testament to Tsukimono's first 10 years as an artist. I hope you enjoy this free-music as much as I have through the years, and I hope it can inspire you, as a listener, to delve deeper into the vast Tsukimono catalogue. There's a plethora of greatness to choose from and making selections for this compilation wasn't an easy task.

Wise men say only fools rush in. Some other wise man (still could've been Elvis though) has also said something to the effect of: Writing about music is like dancing about architecture; it's a very stupid thing to do. And regarding this album, letting the music speak for itself is surely the wisest thing to do.

Finally, just these words about Johan:
I've been close to a lot of people in my life, I've admired and loved quite a few, but Johan Gustavsson is the only man I've ever truly respected.

// David C Sj�berg - Cultural Theoretician and Conceptual Artist, 2010.

�

It's a Trap! is proud to present our latest netrelease: Tsukimono - "Field hollers 2000 - 2010" [IAT.MP3.015]
Curated, compiled and notated by David C Sj�berg, as quoted above, and featuring cover art by the artist himself, Mr. Johan Gustavsson.

I've known Johan for a number of years now and am ecstatic to continue my association with him, both as a friend and as a label. As with many artists in the experimental music scene, Tsukimono's discography is vast, varied and quite intimidating to the unindoctrinated outsider -- this collection serves as a much-welcome introduction to the man and his music. Organized thematically and not by release date, as you will read in David's superb and extensive liner notes, "Field hollers" aims to reduce the difficulty in approaching sometimes difficult music and succeeds beautifully. As much as I'd like to take credit for it, all must go to David and Johan for putting this collection together; I merely serve as the host. Much love to both of them and may we all enjoy the fruits of their labors.

Also! Tsukimono will be releasing a new split 7" with Peter Broderick in October via A Tenderversion Recording and the two of them will be touring together. Dates:

10/10 - Roepaen, Ottersum (NL)
10/12 - Steinbruch, Duisburg (GER)
10/13 - Sint Elisabeth Church, Gent (BEL)
10/14 - Muziekpodium, Bakkeveen (NL)
10/15 - Ko d'oooor, Middelburg (NL)
10/16 - St Giles, London (UK)
10/18 - St Mary Church, Brighton (UK)
10/19 - Academy, Manchester (UK)
10/20 - Pavillion, Cork (EIR)
10/21 - Harmonic Series @ Workman's Club, Dublin (EIR)
10/22 - Cube, Bristol (UK)
10/23 - South Street Arts Centre, Reading (UK)
10/24 - Supersonic Festival, Brimingham (UK)
10/25 - tba, Arras (FRA)
10/26 - tba, Paris (FRA)
10/28 - Treibhaus, Luzern (CH)
10/30 - Schauburg, Dresden (GER)
10/31 - Haus 73 (Saal), Hamburg (GER)

Service begets Casine

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 19:00:10 -0400

Service has launched a new US-based offshoot label called Cascine with a focus on "alt-pop and experimental electronic music with a major-key bent." Their debut release will be an EP from Finnish duo Shine 2009 called "Associates" with an album to follow in 2011. Samples and more info: http://www.cascine.us/

The Silent Ballet reviews For a Minor Reflection

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:53:31 -0400

The Silent Ballet reviews For a Minor Reflection's new record "H�ldum � �tt a� �rei�u": http://thesilentballet.com/dnn/Home/tabid/36/ctl/Details/mid/384/ItemID/3601/Default.aspx

New Lisa Miskovsky album this fall

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:03:18 -0400

Lisa Miskovsky's new album "Lover", produced by Bj�rn Yttling (Peter Bjorn and John), will be out in late November.

Miasmal to debut at Kill-Town Death Fest

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:55:46 -0400

Swedish death metal act Miasmal will be making their long-awaited live debut at the upcoming Kill-Town Death Fest in Copenhagen on September 16. Other bands performing at said fest include Obliteration, Nominon, Ascended, Corpus Mortale, Maim, Vorum and tons more, including great non-Scandinavian acts such as Bloody Sign (FRA), Anatomia (JAP) and Dead Congregation (GRE) -- pretty much every top-level non-American death act. Full details here: http://www.killtowndeathfest.dk/

Red Tape to premiere two new releases at A Scream in the Dark 2

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:37:44 -0400

Red Tape has announced that instrumental Krautrockers Papir will release their self-titled debut album at the label's "A Scream in the Dark 2" festival which begins on October 14. Synth/drum duo Chainsaw Eaters will be releasing their new 7" "Fragments of tomorrow" at the fest as well. Oh, and both bands will be appearing live at said fest as well (naturally!).

Invasionen to Madrid

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:15:24 -0400

Invasionen is doing a one-off gig in Madrid, Spain on September 24 at the Wurlitzer Ballroom.

Fatboy - Bad news from pretty red lips

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:12:53 -0400

This is the new Fatboy single "Bad news from pretty red lips", to be officially released on September 15. The clip seems kind of an odd choice to me as none of the action is synced to the song, but I do actually like the way it sounds, much more than anything on their last album. Anyhow, as mentioned before, the band's new album "Overdrive" will be out October 6 via Razzia Records.

Massgrav back with a new drummer

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:56:35 -0400

Massgrav have enlisted Fenok from Bombstrike/Flyblown as their new drummer and are back in business after a half-year of downtime.

Bonnier Amigo now Cosmos Music

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:36:01 -0400

I imagine that most industry heads are already aware, but anyhow: Bonnier Amigo Music Group is changing their name to Cosmos Music Group. Read the press release at ExMS: http://www.exms.com/?p=2192
See the new Cosmos website here: http://cosmosmusicgroup.com/

Viola - Puppies in the rain

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:18:21 -0400

I guess it's September in Finland, so that means another new track from Viola: http://www.violamusicclub.com/2010-09-puppies-in-the-rain

PopMatters reviews Nils Petter Molv�r

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:08:19 -0400

PopMatters reviews the new Nils Petter Molv�r album "Hamada": http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/129613-nils-petter-molvaer-hamada/

Treefight for Sunlight album coming in October

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 17:02:14 -0400

Tambourhinoceros has confirmed that the new album "A collection of vibrations for your skull" from Treefight for Sunlight will be released on October 4. The first single "What became of you and I?" is out now and can be heard at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/treefightforsunlight

I'm on TV - Efforts made (video)

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:57:28 -0400

Gaffa has the premiere for I'm on TV's new video "Efforts made": http://gaffa.se/tv/clip/407

New album, single from Bo Kaspers Orkester on the way

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:51:17 -0400

Bo Kaspers Orkester's new album "New Orleans", recorded in the city of the title, will be released on October 20 with the lead single "L�t mig komma in" preceding it on September 6.

Entombed back to 5

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:42:07 -0400

Victor Brandt (Totalt J�vla M�rker, Djerv, Satyricon) has been enlisted as Entombed's new bassist with current member Nico Elgstrand switching permanently to 2nd guitar, making the band a 5-piece once more: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=49775189&blogId=538732071

Stream it 'til it goes platinum

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:37:28 -0400

MI reports that the Swedish arm of the IFPI (International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) has decided to allow streams to count in their tabulation towards gold and platinum certification: http://www.musikindustrin.se/artikel/1901/IFPI_Aven_strommad_musik_i_certifieringen.html (in Swedish)

Ed Greene back with new music, no label

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:33:21 -0400

Stockholm-based twang/indie act Ed Greene is back with a new album, but no label to release. Check out three brand new tracks over at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/edgreene

Kite - Jonny boy

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:27:01 -0400

A drumbeat and a whistling melody cribbed straight from Adam and the Ants, the perfect setting for a song so seeped in nostalgia such as this. Sure, the past tense in this case is only "last night," but the wistful feeling remains all the same. "Jonny boy" is the first single single from Kite's forthcoming EP "III", due out September 22 via Progress Productions, and it is a fantastic continuation of their winning streak thus far.

This week's Last.fm chart

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 16:13:10 -0400

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

01. Familjen
02. Robyn
03. S�kert!
04. H�kan Hellstr�m
05. Moneybrother
06. First Aid Kit
07. Kent
08. The Tough Alliance
09. Efterklang
10. Broder Daniel

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/

Let's Say We Did - Straight back to you (video)

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:35:41 -0400

Swedish act Let's Say We Did have a video for their new single "Straight back to you" featuring an ugly transvestite on a moped: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WL2BtJ0h2c

Pennybridge Pioneers anniversary tour

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:24:19 -0400

Millencolin will be celebrating the 10-year anniversary of their breakthrough album "Pennybridge pioneers" with a world tour on which they will be performing said album in full, alongside plenty of other old songs. Dates:

09/09 - Envol Macadam Festival, Quebec City, Quebec (CAN)
09/10 - Ritual, Ottawa, Ontario (CAN)
09/11 - Club Soda, Montreal, Quebec (CAN)
09/12 - Phoenix Theatre, Toronto, Ontario (CAN)
11/06 - Teatro Teleton, Santiago (CHL)
11/07 - Teatro Colegiales, Buenos Aires (ARG)
11/11 - Bar Opinao, Porto Alegre (BRA)
11/12 - Master Hall, Curitiba (BRA)
11/13 - Capital Disco, Santos (BRA)
11/14 - Carioca Club, Sao Paulo (BRA)
12/09 - tba, Mexico City (MEX)
12/11 - tba, Panama City (PAN)
12/12 - tba, San Jos� (CRI)

Interment - Into the crypts of blasphemy (Pulverised Records)

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:09:01 -0400

Ah, the good old days of Swedish death metal. They�ve never really gone away, with the early recordings of likes of Entombed, Dismember, Carnage and Grave still cited as the best, most influential death metal ever to disgust the planet. One band that was around back then -- having formed at the same time as all the aforementioned legends -- was fellow countrymen Interment. Having disbanded after the release of a few demos back in the day, they tested the water back in 2007 with a split with US death crew Funebrarum before going on to record this, their first ever full-length album. I could go on and on describing the sound and the songwriting in great detail but, to keep it short and to the point -- and to let you know exactly what this album sounds like -- one sentence will do the trick: it's the oldschool Stockholm sound and style, done with great authenticity and the aspiration to be the "Left hand path" of the 21st Century. Obviously, nothing can ever top "LHP" but, for those looking for something new in this particular style "Into the crypts of blasphemy" isn't too far away.
- John Norby
Rating: 8

A Swarm of the Sun e-card

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:06:27 -0400

Check out an e-card for A Swarm of the Sun's new album "Zenith": http://formton.se/aswarmofthesun/
If you dig Logh and Cult of Luna, these dudes are about halfway between.

The Take-Away Show: Wildbirds & Peacedrums

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:40:29 -0400

Watch Wildbirds & Peacedrums do the "Take-Away Show" thing for La Blogoteque: http://blogotheque.net/Wildbirds-and-Peacedrums,5598

Easy - It's ok to cry

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 23:20:10 -0400

Classic Swindie act Easy is back with a brand new track, their first in nearly 10 years: http://blogs.playgroundmusic.com/intlpub/easy-is-back-with-a-brand-new-track

99 Minutes #5: Folkelarm

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:40:30 -0400

The latest episode of Listen to Norway's "99 minutes" podcast series is a special feature on Folkelarm, Norway's biggest folk festival: http://www.listento.no/mic.nsf/doc/art2010083015333181329823

Fashionpolice announces Johnny Kock release dates

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:34:31 -0400

Fashionpolice will release Johnny Kock's new single "Sju rider igen" on September 1, with the album "Fejd" to follow on the 15th.

Hybris presents Simon G

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:29:36 -0400

Hybris has a new digital release out now from Swedish rapper/comic artist Simon G aka Simon G�rdenfors (ex-Las Palmas, Far och Son): http://hybrism.blogspot.com/2010/08/ny-release-pa-hybris-digital-simon-g.html

Simon Says No! - Solitary rush (video)

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:08:44 -0400

There is now a video for the new Simon Says No! single "Solitary rush": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ik5OSFJ00g

Robyn - Hyperballad (video)

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:00:41 -0400

Watch Robyn cover Bj�rk's "Hyperballad" at the Polar Music Prize awards ceremony: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xPCxxxvqSw

Bad Afro signs Radio Saigon

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:54:45 -0400

Bad Afro Records has announced the signing of Radio Saigon, a Cophenhagen-based act with an international lineup -- oddly enough, singer/guitarist Daniel Christensen is from here in Olympia, WA I believe and I met his dad once at the post office. Anyhow, the band has recorded three songs for their 7" debut which will be out on November 1 and can be previewed at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/radiosaigon

Den Svenska Tystnaden - L�ngsamma repliker all tid i v�rlden

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:42:45 -0400

New Adrian Recordings act Den Svenska Tystnaden have a new 4-song EP posted for preview at their website: http://www.densvenskatystnaden.se/
"L�ngsamma repliker all tid i v�rlden" is the 2nd of three thematic EPs to be released this year.

3:AM interviews Rockettothesky

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:12:50 -0400

Online literary journal 3:AM talks to Jenny Hval of Rockettothesky about her poetry and her music and many other subjects: http://www.3ammagazine.com/3am/maintenant-25-jenny-hval/

Bastard Priest - Under the hammer of destruction

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:24:19 -0400

I should know by now to keep my expectations in check, but I was so looking forward to the new Bastard Priest album and have been for so long, it's such a letdown to report that it's merely okay. And the fact that it's only decent is almost enough to make me hate it. Almost. The problem isn't even that the b-side of the LP consists of an updated version of their stellar "Merciless insane death" demo, an obvious sticking point for many discriminating listeners, it's that the new songs on side A aren't that hot. They all stick to the same basic formula more or less with a chorus that repeats the title of the song and it's extremely tiresome the 3rd or 4th time around. I'm fine with cro-magnon lunk-headed metal, but this is too much, especially when the riffs aren't so hot to begin with. Thankfully, the title track "Under the hammer of destruction" sounds just as raging as when I first heard it on the demo over a year ago. The detonating bomb intro: not subtle at all, but a perfect summation of what Bastard Priest sounds like at their best. And yes, the chorus does just repeat the title.

Surrounded - Bloodbuzz Ohio (video)

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:07:37 -0400

Watch Surrounded cover The National in an acoustic living room session: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWRAbAOE1sk

A Perfect Friend - Lost keys

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:12:50 -0400

A Perfect Friend are streaming a brand new track at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/aperfectfriend

Johan Angerg�rd blogs about JAMC for Under the Radar

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:11:08 -0400

Johan Angerg�rd (Club 8/Acid House Kings/Labrador Records) blogs about The Jesus and Mary Chain for Under the Radar: http://www.undertheradarmag.com/blog/wasted_on_the_youth_guest_blog_club_8s_johan_angergard_on_the_jesus_and_mar/

New single from Principe Valiente in mid-September

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:03:22 -0400

Swedish dark pop act Principe Valiente will release their new single "The night" on September 15 via Parismusic. Look for a video by director Henning Cronheim, production assistant for the "Millennium Trilogy" movies ("The girl with the dragon tattoo" etc).

The Shiloh - The ship (video)

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:31:58 -0400

I have to say, I like this song a heckuva lot more than I thought I would. I expected overwrought emo-pop silliness and while The Shiloh are definitely rooted in such terrain, their new single is really just a great pop song. Still leaning towards overwrought perhaps, but in a good way. Though maybe not quite as stellar as We are the Storm's "I woke up to the bells", it's got a similar appeal, it pulls the same heartstrings. Oh, and bonus points for a star turn by the daughter of IAT.MP3 artist Racingpaperplanes/Richard Wilson! Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rX0aB0RfNsc

Keith Canisius - Jimmy

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:09:03 -0400

There's a new Keith Canisius track up at SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/keithcanisius/9-jimmy
His third album "This time it's our high" will be out September 6 via Darla Records.

Sirius playlist week #35

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:06:56 -0400

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

01. Bastard Priest - Power of death
02. TALK 1
03. Mindy Misty - Dead pan frenzy
04. Mother of the Forest - Kingdom
05. S�kert! - Fredrik
06. TALK 2
07. Pistol Disco - Pool
08. Obstacles - Rorschach
09. Radar - Paradigm shift
10. TALK 3
11. The Bear Quartet - Fist or hand
12. Niels Nielsen - Dpend
13. Adam Tensta - Young black boy
14. TALK 4
15. I'm Kingfisher - Willing night plants
16. Joel Alme - No class
17. Dear Euphoria - Coming down
18. The Genuine Fakes - When reality hits you
19. TALK 5
20. Brick - Call Batman

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 top 20 Norwegian album chart

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:15:43 -0400

This week's top 20 Norwegian album chart:

01. Hellbillies - Leite etter lykka
02. Contrazt - Ser p� verden
03. Vestlandsfanden - Livets Glade Plommer
04. A-ha - 25
05. Susanne Sundf�r - The Brothel
06. Kvelertak - Kvelertak
07. Guren Hagen - Alle de beste
08. Roy L�nh�iden - Tilbake i tid - de beste sangene
09. Aasmund Nordstoga - Friaren
10. Alexander Rybak - No Boundaries
11. Jan Toft - Alle e aleina
12. Knutsen & Ludvigsen - Dum og Deilig - Knutsen og Ludvigsen
13. Karpe Diem - Aldri Solgt En L�gn
14. Trond Granlund - Sanger jeg l�rte av faren min
15. Celine - Jentekveld
16. Ingeborg Selnes - Heartcore
17. Lars Vaular - Helt om natten, Helt om dagen
18. Donkeyboy - Caught in a Life
19. Elg - Storm
20. Diverse artister - Go'natt

This week's top 20 Swedish album chart

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:13:29 -0400

This week's top 20 Swedish album chart:

01. Darin - Lovekiller
02. Robyn - Body talk pt.1
03. Kent - En plats i solen
04. Oskar Linnros - Vilja bli
05. Lisa Nilsson - 20 - En jubileumssamling
06. Melissa Horn - S�g ingenting till mig
07. Mikael Wiehe - Ta det tillbaka!
08. The Playtones - Rock'n roll dance party
09. Lars Winnerb�ck - T�nk om jag �ngrar mig och sen �ngrar mig igen
10. Martin Fr�st - Fr�st & friends - Encores
11. Eric Saade - Masquerade
12. Timoteij - L�ngtan
13. Fancy Dan - Teenage sunset
14. Lasse Stefanz - Texas
15. Brolle - Best of
16. Salem al Fakir - Ignore this
17. Kalle Moraeus - Underbart
18. H�kan Hellstr�m - Samlade singlar 2000-2010
19. Eric Gadd - Rise up!
20. Kent - Kent box 1991-2008

New website for Tommy Tokyo

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:18:43 -0400

Norwegian act Tommy Tokyo & Starving for My Gravy have a new website to coincide with the release of their new album "Go time, showtime & absolute war", due out September 27: http://tommytokyo.com/

PSL fall album preview

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 15:52:52 -0400

PSL takes a look at a number of high profile Swedish releases coming out this fall: http://blogg.svt.se/psl/2010/08/27/vilken-svensk-musik-langtar-du-mest-efter-hosten-2010/

Wasted - Modern world is dead

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:33:13 -0400

There's a new track from Finnish punkrockers Wasted streaming at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/wastedfinland
The band's new EP "Modern world is dead" will be released on September 15.

Forest & Crispian - Let the best band win (video)

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:03:45 -0400

The band's new video, the first off their forthcoming record "Morgenlands". Direct link: http://vimeo.com/14464292

Left In Ruins 10" coming via SMRT Records

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:50:59 -0400

SMRT Records will be releasing a new 10" from Swedish grind/power-violence act Left In Ruins. Not sure exactly when it'll be out, but you can hear some tracks from the band at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/kopflospunx

New music from I'm Kingfisher

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:48:26 -0400

Playground Music has posted a bunch of tracks from the new I'm Kingfisher (nee Thomas Denver Jonsson) album "Arctic" for preview at SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/playgroundmusic

Penniless talks about their new album

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:33:39 -0400

A West Side Fabrication talks to Penniless frontman Pekka Alisaari about the band's new album "A cab to the city", due out September 1: http://www.westsidefabrication.se/news/a-little-chit-chat-with-pekka/

Veronica Maggio to work with Markus Kruneg�rd, Christian Walz

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:30:29 -0400

Swedish pop artist Veronica Maggio will be recording her third album with Markus Kruneg�rd and Christian Walz producing.

Final Dragontears album in November

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:12:04 -0400

Danish psychrockers Dragontears will release their third and final album "Turn on tune in fuck off!!" on November 1 with a special first edition of vinyl to include a bonus 7" featuring the two exclusive cuts "Astral flash" and "Space fuck".

The Bear Quartet/The Skull Defekts - Millions 7" (Deleted Art/Adrian Recordings)

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 11:28:29 -0400

The one track missing from the vinyl release of "89" gets a platter all its own, paired with a cover of the same by G�teborg noiseniks The Skull Defekts and released on the imprint of Malm�-based Deleted Art. Though The Bear Quartet has toned down the antagonistic experimentalism that peaked with 2006's "Eternity now", the lyrical sentiment remains pure contempt, as is most often the case with latter-day BQ tracks featuring words penned by Mr. Mattias Alkberg. Needless to say, I love it, especially when they pair their anger with a refined, stripped-down postpunk approach as is on display here. As for the flip, The Skull Defekts don't remake the track as much as you might expect, though they do amplify the noise and aggression quotient, taking the sublime and turning it darkly sinister. Less subtle, to be sure, but no less effective. Not sure about the pressing numbers, but the glued jacket and heavy black dustsleeve make it a package worth possessing.
- Avi Roig
Rating: 9

Slaktattack seeking label

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:51:44 -0400

Swedish d-beat act Slaktattack had the label that was set to release their full-length album back out on em, so they're looking for a new one to release it: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=86163093&blogId=538590869

Labrador in the fall

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:18:57 -0400

Upcoming releases in the pipeline from Labrador Records:

November - The Radio Dept. - "Never follow suit" 12" EP
November - Acid House Kings - "Are we lovers or are we friends?" digital single
December - Club 8 - "Closer now" 7" single

Dusted reviews Sistol/Vladislav Delay

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:16:38 -0400

Dusted reviews the new album from Sistol, the straight-up techno alias of Vladislav Delay: http://www.dustedmagazine.com/reviews/5924

Faster Katt - Strange candy (video)

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:48:33 -0400

Can't say that there's a direct link between the lyrics of "Strange candy" and the plot of Werner Herzog's "Even dwarfs started small", but I don't care. Good band, good song, worth watching. Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Se4bWvWZteM

Imperial State Electric record new mini-album, will tour in October

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:48:01 -0400

Imperial State Electric has recorded six songs for an upcoming mini-album to be released on 10" vinyl along with CD/download. No release date yet, but the band is mixing it now and trying to get it out ASAP. Otherwise, keep an eye out for European tour dates to be announced for October.

HighWon - Fr�n hj�rtat (video)

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:40:31 -0400

Yet another new Swedish hip-hop track featuring a chorus with autotune abuse. Also, very disappointing to see them perpetuating stupid gangster clich�s such as aggressive pitbulls and the like. These dudes are way more talented than this; I expect far better.

Check out Mother of the Forest

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:30:10 -0400

I have nothing but respect for Swedesplease even though we have vastly different tastes, however, when we do agree on something you can rest assured that it's good stuff. His latest post on Lule�-based electro/goth artist Mother of the Forest is indeed one such occasion: http://www.swedesplease.net/2010/08/25/mother-of-the-forest/
Check out the track that's posted and then hit up myspace to hear more/download the EP.

Mercy Street to get 7" release

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:26:36 -0400

Fever Ray's cover of "Mercy Street" by Peter Gabriel will be released on 7" vinyl via Rabid Records with the album cut "Dry and dusty" as the b-side. The official release date is September 6.

Mindy Misty - Volcano sea

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:07:28 -0400

Yes, I am a total sucker for noisy indierock, especially if it has a distinct 90s bent, and Norway's Mindy Misty fit that bill to a tee. Not that I want to get all grumpy-old-man about it, but I like what I like and there's no getting around it and this stuff goes straight to the heart. Anyhow, they've apparently been kicking around for awhile already since the upcoming record "Generic communion" will be their 3rd release (due out September 6 via their own Handmade Records), but this is the first I've heard of them and I'm way, way into it. They've got tons of thick Sonic Youth-esque harmonies and when they combine it with that oh-so-Scandinavian sense of melody, they can't lose. Give me slightly buried vocals and a hard-driving rhythm section on top of that and I'm sold. Easy and done! So if you dig KVLR, early Motorpsycho, Unwound, Dinosaur Jr., etc etc... you will be into this. And you should.

New music from Dogsmile (ex-Camouflage)

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:37:29 -0400

Dogsmile, the band founded by three ex-members of Swedish postpunk act Camouflage (aka Tapirerna/The Tapirs), hasn't released anything since their 1995 album "Hey, I just wanna say hello", but now they're back and have a bunch of new tracks on myspace: http://www.myspace.com/dogsmileswe
Definitely does not sound like the old stuff, but still worth checking out I think. Also, speaking of Camouflage, the excellent Swedish postpunk blog Tonkraft recently came back to life with an old live set from the band's later period -- check it out: http://tonkraft-sr.blogspot.com/2010/08/camouflage-1988-live-i-umea.html

Pitchfork reviews Kemialliset Yst�v�t

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:30:49 -0400

Pitchfork reviews the new record "Ullakkopalo" from Finnish freak-folk act Kemialliset Yst�v�t: http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/14593-ullakkopalo/

Night Minutes - Self-titled digital play (self-released)

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 11:11:01 -0400

To be honest, I was a little thrown by the lo-fi, analog feel of Night Minutes' "Sweetheart at the funeral" on my first listen, but I've since fallen quite hard for the band's sound: the warm, viscous layers of guitars and keyboards, the slight hint of distortion on the vocals, even the digital drums. If anything, Phil Spector's Wall of Sound seems more at home on Night Minutes' self-titled EP than on more polished recordings, the dense strata of instrumentation providing a fine vehicle for both the strong songwriting and Anna Knutson's and Max J Hansson's wonderful vocal harmonies and tradeoffs. As noted in the mp3 post for "Sweetheart at the funeral", there is something infectious about Night Minutes, and their ability to evoke the summery, 1960s girl group feel without sacrificing depth is one of the band's greatest strengths. Despite only being three tracks long, I've yet to tire of the EP. There's not a weak song to be found, and for such a short recording it is well-paced: the upbeat "Sweetheart..." is followed by the slower, more contemplative "Queens", with the fabulous, building "Lord, I can never be your mirror" rounding out the record. There�s not much more you can ask of a young band. Having set the bar quite high with their debut effort, I am excited to see what Night Minutes have in store for the future.
- Lars Garvey Laing-Peterson
Rating: 8

New Fleurety finally

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:23:41 -0400

Fleurety's upcoming "Evoco bestias" 7", their first new material since 1998, will finally be released this fall via Aesthetic Death Records

Sweatmaster album preview

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:16:01 -0400

Check out a preview stream of the new Sweatmaster album "Dig up the knife": http://www.recordshopx.com/artist/sweatmaster/dig_up_the_knife_ltd_digipack/

New Harrys Gym album in September

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 20:02:30 -0400

Norwegian indie act Harrys Gym will release their new album "What was ours can't be yours" on September 6. Hear a sample: http://soundcloud.com/up-front-artists/old-man

Wonderland signs S�derut

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 19:20:52 -0400

Wonderland Records has announced the signing of electronic pop outfit S�derut and will be releasing their debut single "Dansande homofober" ("Dancing homophobes") in October. Preview at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/soderut

A funeral for Sir Eric Beyond

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:55:19 -0400

Sir Eric Beyond is dead, long live Sir Eric Beyond! Say your farewells on September 4 at K�gelbanan in Stockholm: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=102393383153538

Nodic by Nature Popkomm podcast

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:49:25 -0400

Nordic by Nature has put together a podcast mix to go with the showcase they're putting on at this year's Popkomm Festival: http://soundcloud.com/shibie/nordic-by-nature-popkomm-2010-podcast

CEO - No mercy

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 12:17:47 -0400

I like CEO best when he goes for a more ominous tone as opposed to the now-typical Balearic Plague sweeping the world. "No mercy" does retain some of those summer beach vibes, but the first 30 seconds or so before the vocals come in sounds like Death in June and I love it. I know I shouldn't be surprised, considering the title, but then again, I suppose that surprise is the name of the game for Sincerely Yours. They're constantly in danger of painting themselves into a corner and I'm doubtful that anyone in that circle of artists will ever be able to deliver a confident live show, but once in a while they do something so right that it's worth taking notice. Even for someone like me who could usually care less about this sort of indie/electro pop.

Kristian Antilla & Sylvia Vrethammar - Magdalena (livet f�re d�den) (video)

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:58:35 -0400

This is the new Kristian Anttila single, a duet with famed jazz vocalist Sylvia Vrethammar. Kinda mellow/easy-listening, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmUQjIY5G_U

New �rabrot tunes, new UK tourdates

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:44:48 -0400

The Quietus has new sample tunes from Norwegian sludge-rockers �rabrot plus news that they'll be playing two UK shows in October: http://thequietus.com/articles/04856-news-arabrot-confirm-two-uk-shows-plus-hear-new-tracks

New website for Ludwig Bell

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:42:23 -0400

Ludwig Bell has a new website: http://www.ludwigbell.se/

Red Harvest is over

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:36:42 -0400

Norwegian industrial/metal act Red Harvest have officially called it quits: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=36203363&blogId=538548061

Pitchfork reviews Drivan

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:34:06 -0400

Pitchfork reviews the new album from Drivan, Kim Hiorth�y's full-band project: http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/14590-disko/

The Bear Quartet - Fist or hand

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:31:21 -0400

The new The Bear Quartet single "Fist or hand" isn't officially released until September 1, but the label is already offering it for download along with a b-side reggae cover version by Desmond Foster featuring Gordon Cyrys on vocals: http://www.adrianfiles.com/BQ-Fist_Or_Hand-MP3.rar

No Balls - Problems that will solve themselves 7" (self-released)

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:30:11 -0400

Not much progression on this, the band's third release, though it's not as if I expected any from this pair of knuckle-draggers. No Balls are still purveying the same dismal caveman pummel as before and I suppose you either like it or you don't. I do, despite my best intentions to consider myself above this sort of grating drivel. Intentionally aggravating and often half-baked, but no one does it better. 4 songs, 306 copies.
- Avi Roig
Rating: 7

Adam Tensta - Young black boy

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:06:50 -0400

Check out a new track from Swedish rapper Adam Tensta: http://soundcloud.com/rmh-mgmt-grp/adam-tensta-young-black-boy

V. Sj�berg New Jazz Ensemble - End alone

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:25:18 -0400

There's a track from the new V. Sj�berg New Jazz Ensemble album "Lover man" now streaming at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/kalligrammofon

The High Hats to tour Spain

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:18:03 -0400

The High Hats will tour Spain in September:

09/17 - La Gramola, Orihuela
09/18 - Lili Marlene, Almeria
09/19 - Sugar Pop, Granada
09/21 - Gruta 77, Madrid
09/22 - Fiestas de San Mateo, Oviedo
09/23 - Sala Mercantil, Badajoz
09/24 - Sala Palo Palo, Marinaleda/Sevilla
09/25 - Sala Arco, Alcazar de San Juan

Supersilent 11 coming in late September

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:12:16 -0400

Supersilent's next album "11", their first ever vinyl-only release, will be out on September 20 via Rune Grammofon: http://www.runegrammofon.com/artists/supersilent/rlp-3103-supersilent_-11-_lp

Kaizers Orchestra - Philemon Arthur & the Dung

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 18:59:34 -0400

There's a brand new Kaizers Orchestra track streaming at SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/kaizersorchestra/01-philemon-arthur-the-dung

Bj�rk - The comet song (video)

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 18:26:01 -0400

Way, way back in November I told you that Bj�rk was contributing a song to a Moomins movie. Now, the song is done and there's a video for it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLh8c-77ysA

Dusted reviews Wildbirds & Peacedrums

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:47:36 -0400

Dusted reviews the new Wildbirds & Peacedrums album "Rivers", the compilation of the "Retina" and "Iris" EPs: http://dustedmagazine.com/reviews/5918

This week's Last.fm chart

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:44:28 -0400

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

01. S�kert!
02. Jens Lekman
03. Robyn
04. H�kan Hellstr�m
05. Shout Out Louds
06. Kent
07. The Concretes
08. Best Coast
09. Efterklang
10. The Radio Dept.

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/

Mob 47 tourdates

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 16:59:23 -0400

Confirmed North American dates for old-school punks Mob 47:

11/05 - A Varning From Montreal IV, Montreal, Quebec
11/08 - tba, Boston, MA
11/09 - Whitney House, Hartford, CT
11/10 - Club Europa, Brooklyn, NY
11/11 - The Beaumont Warehouse, Philadelphia, PA
11/12 - No Way Fest, Richmond, VA

PopMatters reviews ��menn reissue

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 16:56:44 -0400

PopMatters reviews the Shadoks Records reissue of Icelandic early 70s rockers ��menn: http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/129650-menn-menn/
Shadoks released a few Icelandic nuggets recently, but this one is by far the best.

Torpedo - An invention

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:51:23 -0400

Torpedo's new Justin Timberlake-produced single "An invention" is now streaming in its entirety at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/torpedo

Efterklang reissues early albums, releases new single

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:43:55 -0400

Efterklang has reissued their first two albums "Tripper" and "Parades" in new, expanded 2CD versions via their own label Rumraket: http://rumraket.tumblr.com/post/1002675899/three-new-efterklang-releases-out-now
The band's new single "Raincoats" b/w "Harmonics" has just been released digitally as well.

Rasmus Kellerman - The 24th (Startracks)

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:11:50 -0400

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.
- Lars Garvey Laing-Peterson
Rating: 7

S�kert! - Fredrik (video)

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 11:07:37 -0400

Gaffa has the premiere of S�kert!'s new video for the single "Fredrik": http://gaffa.se/tv/clip/401

Pistol Disco - Pool

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:28:32 -0400

Oh, hey! A new track from Pistol Disco: http://pistoldisco.tumblr.com/post/999418920/pistol-disco-pool-mp3

Torpedo + Justin Timberlake (video)

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:25:33 -0400

Check out an excerpt of a new song from Torpedo plus footage of them in the studio with Justin Timberlake: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ERKCGovaA0
Look for the band's new single "An invention" (as heard in the video) to be officially released on September 13.

Details posted for The Shiloh album debut

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:42:09 -0400

The Shiloh's forthcoming debut album "Tiny sparks - Massive fires" is finally confirmed for release on September 22 via Panic & Action. Cover art and tracklist: http://www.panicandaction.com/releases.php?id=14

New music from Ok Star Orchestra

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:04:42 -0400

Ok Star Orchestra are streaming a couple new tracks at myspace off their new album "Sound classique": http://www.myspace.com/okstarorch

The Genuine Fakes - When reality hits you (mp3 + video)

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:58:52 -0400

Swedish powerpop act The Genuine Fakes are giving away their new single "When reality hits you" as a free download: http://music.thegenuinefakes.com/album/when-reality-hits-you
Check out the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zr0EnPimx-Y

Mr. Death - Celestial suffering

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:03:45 -0400

Mr. Death is now streaming a new track from their forthcoming EP "Death suits you": http://www.myspace.com/misterdeathsweden
Said EP comes out September 24 via Agonia Records and will be available both on 10" vinyl and CD.