IT'S A TRAP! Scandinavian Music Journal

We Live in Trenches to get CD release via Suicide

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:41:45 -0400

Swedish label Suicide Records will be doing a CD release of We Live in Trenches' full-length debut "Modern hex". The vinyl came out earlier this year via P.Trash and is highly recommended for anyone into rocked-out punk ala Fucked Up.

Download Enforcer for free

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:33:16 -0400

Heavy Artillery is offering up Enforcer's excellent album "Diamonds" as a free download for 1 day only: http://www.heavyartillery.us/enforcerpromo/

Shout Out Louds - Is there a ghost (video)

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:25:39 -0400

Shout Out Louds recorded a Band of Horses cover, member Ted Malmros made a video: http://vimeo.com/13701417

New Stefan Sundstr�m album in September

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:40:20 -0400

The new Stefan Sundstr�m album "5 dagar i augusti" will be released on September 1 via National.

Maia Hirasawa - Dr�m bort mig igen (video)

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:38:38 -0400

The title track from the EP, released earlier this year. Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FziNGBTFoY

Fysisk Format to release Siste Dagers Helvete collection

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 14:31:31 -0400

Fysisk Format will be releasing a discography collection from Norwegian punks Siste Dagers Helvete in late August: http://tigernet.no/shop/release.php?code=129472
Also, I do suspect that the FYR001 catalog number means we'll be seeing more retrospective releases from the label in days to come.

Interment confirm release date, vinyl edition

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:29:00 -0400

Interment, yet another quality act of Swedish death revivalists, will officially unleash their album "Into the crypts of blasphemy" on August 2 in Europe, August 31 in the US. Preview here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARB2pEBYUdk
In addition to the CD on Pulverised Records, there will also be an LP version coming out on August 13 via Cyclone Empire Records which will feature a bonus cover of "Torn apart" by Carnage.

Kaka - Below this sun

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:54:45 -0400

Kaka's self-titled debut album from a couple years ago was a bit of a sleeper. A few really great tracks (such as "The hotspurs"), but it never seemed to get much traction. That is to say, I enjoyed it, but it lacked the stickiness I really need in my pop music. Not to mention, an atrocious name. C'mon... Kaka? Talk about hamstringing yourself from the get-go, might as well burn a few wads of cash while you're at it. Anyhow, the new single "Below this sun" is good, maybe even a little bit great, but like my wife just said to me, "this sounds really fun, but I can't recommend them to anyone." I've played it on my radio show a few times even though I'm loathe to announce it out loud and now I guess I'm recommending it you, here in print, despite my foolish trepidation. Once you get past the awful, awful name, there's actually a lot to like.

Pitchfork reviews Thieves Like Us

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:14:05 -0400

Pitchfork is not into the latest Thieves Like Us album: http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/14483-again-and-again/

Jens Lekman - The end of the world is bigger than love

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:08:28 -0400

Trade an email address for a new song from Jens Lekman: http://secretlycanadian.com/blog/2010/07/jens-lekman-shares-new-song/

Culkin got it down on tape

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:06:24 -0400

Culkin, Swedish indierockers la classiqu�, have finished recording their debut album and are now beginning to mix.

Don't believe it

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:44:24 -0400

Just to clarify one more time, rumors of Annika Norlin's musical retirement have been greatly exaggerated: http://razziarecords.se/news.asp?id=920

Supergruppen - Farsta Centrum by night (video)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:17:36 -0400

The new video from Supergruppen, aka Swedish hip-hop artists Lorentz, Alexis Weak and Lowitz. Good thing the clip is so nice to look at because the song is terrible. Direct link: http://vimeo.com/13646830

Ted G�rdestad - Oh, vilken h�rlig da'

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:37:39 -0400

"Oh, vilken h�rlig dag!" Yes indeed it is a beautiful day, too bad I'm stuck inside working. Working far harder than a person ought to work during summer too, hence the lack of creative posts from me these recent weeks. Physically here, yet mentally gone, trying my best to embrace our small window of sunshine up here in the PacNW.

Anna von Hausswolff - Singing from the grave (Kning Disk)

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:56:20 -0400

Anna von Hausswolff does an admirable job crafting a piano-driven album that takes unexpected turns instead of falling prey to clich�d pop structures, with a number of the tracks "Singing from the grave" giving full voice to the talents of its composer. In this way, von Hausswolff successfully avoids the fate of being pigeonholed as 'just another female singer-songwriter,' but her idiosyncratic style has the unfortunate affect of rendering entire portions of the album difficult to get into. While I applaud the fact she avoids a number of avenues already explored by other artists, tracks like "Pills" and "Lost at sea" feel like bizarre, stripped-down Bj�rk-inspired compositions, and, while it is amazing to listen to the whirlwinds von Hausswolff creates with her voice and fingers, it is not an experience that grows more enjoyable with repeated listening. It is more than obvious that Anna von Hausswolff is a talented musician and vocalist, but instead of finding myself lost in the songs, as I did with the gorgeous and haunting "Track of time" and "Above all", I began to feel outside most of the compositions, often unable to forge any connection between myself as listener and von Hausswolff as artist.
- Lars Garvey Laing-Peterson
Rating: 6

Maim finish 2nd album, more

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:47:27 -0400

Swedish death metallers Maim have finished work on their sophomore album, recorded once again in their hometown of �tvidaberg with producer/engineer Niels Nielsen. Expect a fall release. And speaking of Niels, check out a couple new solo singles from him at Bandcamp: http://nielsnielsen.bandcamp.com/

New Tommy Tokyo in late September

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:12:21 -0400

Norwegian act Tommy Tokyo & Starving For My Gravy will release their new album on September 20. No title or any other details yet, but it was produced by Head (way too many credits to list) and was recorded at Monnow Valley Studios in Wales.

Sienna Root in Espa�a

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:56:37 -0400

Swedish hard-rockers Sienna Root are going to Spain in November:

11/11 - Gruta 77, Madrid
11/12 - Zeppelin Rock Bar, Sevilla
11/13 - La Ley Seca, Zaragoza
11/14 - Jimmy Jazz, Vitoria
11/18 - Dom Pedro, Gij�n
11/19 - La Cueva del Jazz, Zamora
11/20 - Sala Mogambo, San Sebastian
11/21 - Taberna Belfast, Leon

Then again, maybe not

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:54:53 -0400

Annika Norlin says don't believe everything you read.

Christel Alsos - Please say (live video)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:37:02 -0400

Check out a live video of Norwegian artist Christel Alsos performing the new song "Please say", the first single from her forthcoming album due out later this year: http://www.nrk.no/nett-tv/indeks/222571/

Michael Monroe to support Mot�rhead

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:20:10 -0400

Hanoi Rocks frontman Michael Monroe will support Mot�rhead on their 35th anniversary UK tour: http://www.michaelmonroe.com/site/2010/06/michael-monroe-to-support-motorhead-on-their-35th-anniversary-uk-tour/

The Floor is Made of Lava vs Oasis

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:05:13 -0400

The Floor is Made of Lava cover an Oasis b-side and film a low-key video for it of the group playing football/soccer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-F8pxOfHCQ

The Kissaway Trail back in North America

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:54:48 -0400

The Kissaway Trail are coming over for a few dates in August:

08/06 - Empty Bottle, Chicago, IL
08/07 - Lollapalooza, Chicago, IL
08/09 - Mod Club, Toronto, ON
08/11 - Highline Ballroom, New York, NY

The End on vinyl

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 15:26:46 -0400

Brothers of End's fine quality album "The end", now available on vinyl. I have no idea who's selling it, but I want one.

Nordic By Nature - You can't fake the sunshine (summer 2010 mix)

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:00:19 -0400

Nordic By Nature have posted a decent looking summer mixtape on SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/shibie/nordic-by-nature-you-cant-fake-the-sunshine-summer-2010-mix
Which reminds me, I should post my own recent mix over there as well.

Obstacles on tour

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 13:15:46 -0400

Danish instrumental act Obstacles are heading out on an extensive European tour next month:

08/02 - Tancy, St. Petersburg (RUS)
08/03 - tba, Petrozavodsk (RUS)
08/04 - tba, Novgorod (RUS)
08/05 - Aktzal, Moscow (RUS)
08/07 - tba, Riga (LAT)
08/08 - XI20, Vilnius (LIT)
08/09 - Przepompownia, Szczytno (POL)
08/10 - Jazzga Club, Lodz (POL)
08/11 - Eufemia, Warszawa (POL)
08/12 - eNeRDe Club, Torun (POL)
08/13 - La Putika, Hradec Kr�lov� (CZ)
08/14 - Mitril, Olomouc (CZ)
08/15 - tba (CZ)
08/16 - Rhiz, Vienna (AUS)
08/17 - NOISE PARTY vol. III @ Velbloud, Cesk� Budejovice (CZ)
08/18 - Deja Vu, Cadca (SLO)
08/19 - tba, Graz (AUS)
08/20 - Brownstahlfest, Erfurt (GER)
08/21 - Club 007, Prague (CZ)
08/22 - Holubn�k Club, Kol�n (CZ)
08/23 - tba (GER)
08/24 - Liwi, Leipzig (GER)
08/25 - tba (GER)
08/26 - Schokoladen, Berlin (GER)
08/27 - G�ngeviertel, Hamburg (GER)
08/28 - tba (GER)
08/29 - UJZ Kornstra�e (Brunch Show!), Hannover (GER)
09/02 - tba, Z�rich (CH)
09/03 - La Taverne du Th��tre, La Louvi�re (BEL)
09/04 - Why Not? Bar, Dudelange (LUX)
09/05 - tba, Wiesbaden (GER)
09/06 - tba (GER)
09/07 - AZ Conni, Dresden (GER)
09/08 - JuzI, G�ttingen (GER)
09/09 - Limes, K�ln (GER)
09/10 - Vortex, Siegen (GER)
09/11 - 1000Fryd, Aalborg (DK)
09/12 - Images Festival @ Mayhem, Copenhagen (DK)

This week's Last.fm chart

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:49:55 -0400

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

01. Familjen
02. Kent
03. H�kan Hellstr�m
04. The Concretes
05. CEO
06. Robyn
07. Jens Lekman
08. Jonathan Johansson
09. The Soundtrack of Our Lives
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/

Rising to tour Europe again

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:36:21 -0400

Heavy Danish act Rising is hitting the road in September for a string of dates with German act Behoover:

09/02 - Black Fleck, Potsdam (GER)
09/03 - Stumpf, Hannover (GER)
09/04 - South of Mainstream Festival, Stolzenhain (GER)
09/05 - Immerhin, W�rzburg (GER)
09/06 - Holoubnik, Kolin (CZ)
09/07 - Kunstverein, N�rnberg (GER)
09/08 - Scheune, Dresden (GER)
09/09 - tba, Kirchdorf a.d. Krems (AUS)
09/10 - Sub, Graz (AUS)
09/11 - Ponyhof, Frankfurt (GER)
09/12 - Cassiopeia, Berlin (GER)

If you're curious as to what to expect, you can watch an excerpt of the band's Roskilde performance here: http://roskilde-festival.tv/0012777585551774/concert-with-rising

I'm Kingfisher confirms album for October

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:13:47 -0400

I'm Kingfisher, the new nom de guerre of Mr. Thomas Denver Jonsson, has confirmed the release of his new album "Arctic" for October via Playground Music. Read more at his new website: http://www.imkingfisher.com/

Junip - Always

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:09:10 -0400

There's a new Junip single streaming at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/junip
The band's debut full-length "Fields" comes out September 14.

Dark Funeral needs new singer

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:56:47 -0400

Vocalist Masse Broberg has parted ways with Dark Funeral and the band is looking for a replacement: http://www.lambgoat.com/news/view.aspx?id=14838

Dear Euphoria - This night will flee (Given Productions/Herbivor Music)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:37:48 -0400

The term euphoria couldn't really be more appropriate to represent what Stockholm native Elina Johansson does. Listening to the art she creates is a truly enigmatic experience. Where the vast majority of music is specific to mood, Johansson's output draws you in and has profound effect regardless of your current demeanor: if you're up it saturates the senses and genuinely heightens euphoric states; if you're down it rests gently on your shoulder and comforts you as an old friend, reassuring and promising. It's probably best described as "music for all moods" and it's without doubt some of the most beautiful music to ever emerge from Sweden. "This night will flee" is a four-track EP that builds on Johansson's previous releases, the "For everything of worth" and "Heal my violence" albums and, while retaining the characteristic elements of Johannson's output, sees her progress in a slightly more pop vein, albeit with dark undertones. This EP is not unlike something you would expect fellow countrymen Paatos to release and Johansson's vocals are quite reminiscent of their singer Petronella Nettermalm, another outstanding Swedish vocalist. Standout track on here is undoubtedly "Coming down" and is actually the song closest to Paatos in terms of vocal style. It's almost as if Dear Euphoria have taken the best bits of Paatos, Massive Attack, Kate Bush and Portishead, stuck them in some kind of musical blender and come out with a track that, to these ears at least, easily stands equal with any of the aforementioned acts. That, together with the title track (which is possibly the most haunting few minutes that Johansson has ever revealed), are the most epic songs on the disc, with the others -- "Rescue" and "No more time to weep" are more in line with what we've come to expect from Dear Euphoria. An absolutely sublime record that has the potential to profoundly touch everyone it reaches.
- John Norby
Rating: 9

Vice interviews Morbus Chron

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:28:38 -0400

Vice interviews up-and-coming young Swedish old-school death metal act Morbus Chron: http://www.viceland.com/music/2010/07/a-fist-in-the-face-of-god-morbus-chron/

PopMatters reviews Food

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:28:40 -0400

PopMatters reviews the new record on ECM from international jazz act Food: http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/128356-food-quiet-inlet/

Listen to the sound of The Universe

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:19:05 -0400

Swedish instrumental act The Universe (ex-Iisole) are streaming their new album at Bandcamp, as well as offering it up as a paid download to raise money for an eventual vinyl release: http://theuniversemusic.bandcamp.com/
If you're into the kind of stuff that Tenderversion Recordings puts out (ie, Scraps of Tape, September Malevolence, etc.), you'll probably be into this as well.

Liechtenstein - On the tram (video)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:32:36 -0400

The b-side for the band's new single "Passion for water". I actually like it better than the flip, I must say. Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnJxER78de8

Annika Norlin to retire from music

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:31:41 -0400

Aftonbladet reports that Annika Norlin (Hello Saferide/S�kert!) is walking away from the music business: http://www.aftonbladet.se/nojesbladet/article7516271.ab
Too much, too soon, too much pressure; totally understandable: "Det jag gillar med att plugga �r att musiken blir en hobby. D� f�r man in mer lust i det. Man g�r saker av r�tt anledningar." Her final S�kert! album "Facit" comes out September 15 and a new Hello Saferide album (recorded at the same time) will follow in spring.

Robyn - Hang with me (video)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:18:55 -0400

Great song, great clip, love the innuendo. Took me a few tries to get used to this version of the track after listening to the acoustic take on "Body talk pt. 1" so many times, but I think it's finally won me over. Direct link: http://vimeo.com/13643546

Some Place Else clearance sale

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:58:33 -0400

Finnish label/distro Some Place Else is clearing out their entire mailorder: http://www.someplaceelse.net/
They specialize in industrial/noise, but who knows what you might find?

Britta Persson - Meet a bear (video)

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:51:20 -0400

The bizarro physics make my head hurt. In a good way, I think. Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btsrJDFOT18

Sirius playlist week #30

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:46:56 -0400

Here's the playlist for this week's radio show Sirius XMU, all metal/punk to coincide with the new podcast:

01. TALK 1
02. Waklev�ren - Attakk
03. Eskatol - Fane av l�gner
04. �rabrot - End of the world / Revelations
05. L�gnhalsmottagningen - Positivt tankande
06. TALK 2
07. Grave - Liberation
08. Obliteration - Exterminate
09. Liket Lever - Levande begravd
10. Knugen Faller - Jag vill inte vara med
11. TALK 3
12. Haust - Anti-reproductive
13. Underachiever - Cut a smile
14. Pointless Youth - Damaged head
15. Wolfbrigade - In adrenaline
16. Darkthrone - I am the graves of the 80s
17. TALK 4
18. Nekromantheon - We're rotting
19. Slugathor - The smoke
20. Tyrant - I'll burn that bridge (before you can cross it)
21. TALK 5
22. Bitch Boys - Automobile
23. M�gel - Jag �r s� r�dd
24. Okkultokrati - On mouth of hells
25. Victims - Another way to die
26. Nitad - Stockholmsnatt
27. TALK 6

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.

Podcast: Nekromantik Norway

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 17:18:13 -0400

Not all of these tracks are from recent releases, but together they do make up the majority of my current listening rotation. Dig in, get dirty.

DATE ADDED : 07/25/10
LENGTH : 40:29 min
DOWNLOAD : itsatrap_podcast_07252010.mp3 (55.6mb)

Tracklist:
01. Haust - Anti-reproductive
02. Darkthrone - I am the graves of the 80s
03. Eskatol - Fane av l�gner
04. �rabrot - Dead to me / Aficionado
05. Okkultokrati - Tomb city rockers - Pungent state
06. Obliteration - Exterminate
07. Waklev�ren - Oslo spy
08. Nekromantheon - We're rotting
09. Eskatol - Siste dans
10. Darkthrone - Circle the wagons
11. Obliteration - Ingesting death
12. Okkultokrati - On mouth of hells
13. Haust - Pointing and laughing
14. Waklev�ren - Attakk

The Crown - Blood O.D

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:39:37 -0400

There's a new track from Swedish thrashers The Crown up at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thecrownonlineswe

J�nsi US tour this fall

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:31:55 -0400

J�nsi is touring the US this fall:

10/15 - 4th And B, San Diego, CA
10/17 - The Wiltern, Los Angeles, CA
10/19 - Fox Theater, Oakland, CA
10/21 - House of Blues, Las Vegas, NV
10/22 - The Complex, Salt Lake City, UT
10/23 - The Marquee, Tempe, AZ
10/25 - Verizon Theatre, Grand Prairie, TX
10/26 - Austin Music Hall, Austin, TX
10/27 - Verizon Music Theater, Houston, TX
10/29 - Voodoo Festival, New Orleans, LA
10/30 - Moogfest, Asheville, NC
10/31 - The Tabernacle, Atlanta, GA
11/02 - The Pageant, St. Louis, MO
11/03 - Vic Theatre, Chicago, IL
11/05 - The Fillmore, Detroit, MI
11/06 - Newport Music Hall, Columbus, OH
11/08 - 9:30 Club, Washington DC
11/10 - Hammerstein Ballroom, New York City, NY

Waklev�ren - Oslo spy

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 16:14:23 -0400

Not that it needs to be reiterated, but Norway's been ruling the scene when it comes to filthy metal/punk. Darkthrone, Obliteration, Okkultokrati, Haust... all top-notch acts. See also: Waklev�ren. I'm making a mix, it'll be posted this weekend and it'll include this track.

Moneybrother - Down at the R

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:04:31 -0400

Moneybrother's new US single "Down at the R" is being given away as a free download: http://www.thetripwire.com/listen/2010/06/29/premiere-moneybrother-down-at-the-r/
This is a newly re-recorded version of the track for the US release of "Real control".

Kasper Bj�rke - Heaven (video)

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:42:48 -0400

Kasper Bj�rke has a new video for his cover of "Heaven" by The Rolling Stones, featuring guest vocals from Louise Foo of Giana Factory: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBArczb8gFs

Aversionline on the Ill Omen/Get Stitches! split

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:10:30 -0400

Aversionline reviews the new split 7" from Finnish hardcore acts Ill Omen and Get Stitches!: http://www.aversionline.com/blahg/2010/07/22/ill-omen-get-stitches-split-7/

Haleiwa - Vibraandaman

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:57:05 -0400

Though I am inherently drawn to the dark, dingy and the dystopian, that's not my whole musical diet. Such monochromatic listening habits wouldn't just drive me crazy, they'd probably also turn my wife murderous way before I'd reach the point of no return. Which is why the dichotomy of having someone like Haleiwa (nee Mikko Singh) in my library is crucial -- his overwhelmingly posi vibes are a refreshing break from my usual rotation of ugly Norwegian punk/metal and Swedish death metal reissues. I know it might seem a stretch to imagine someone being so blissfully happy as to name an album "Pure vida dude" and mean it 100% sans irony (not to mention, songs such as "Two dolphins came by to say 'hello!'"), but having met Mikko in person, I can assure you: it is true. He is exactly the person his music would lead you to believe and I love him for it. Yes, it does veer dangerously close to dippy hippie territory, but there's nothing lame about loving the world/loving life. Especially when there are many days I can't. Yes, I do enjoy the exploration of its darker recesses, but I also need to come up for air sometimes and tracks like "Vibraandaman" help me get there. Simple and beautiful, like many of the little things in life, and meant to be cherished.

The Silent Ballet reviews Ass

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:35:43 -0400

The Silent Ballet reviews the new Ass (Andreas S�derlund) album "Salt marsh": http://thesilentballet.com/dnn/Home/tabid/36/ctl/Details/mid/384/ItemID/3503/Default.aspx

Originalljudet seeking Original Farmers

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:58:59 -0400

Originalljudet are looking to perform a special barnyard concert for pigs (and/or cows): http://www.originalljudet.com/node/235

R�d Kjetil and the Loving Eye of God + Duo Senza Testa = R�d Kjetil Senza Testa

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:57:17 -0400

In addition to the previously mentioned cassette by R�d Kjetil and the Loving Eye of God out now on Kalligrammofon, the band is also teaming up with the label and labelmates Duo Senza Testa under the name R�d Kjetil Senza Testa for a full-length album. Entitled "Vinlinden", the LP will be out in August and will contain a 20-minute track featuring French electronic/experimental music legend Richard Pinhas (Heldon).

This Is Head - Det var jag

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:36:15 -0400

Adrian Recordings has been posting new remixes every week all summer long, but this week they've changed things up a bit by offering up This Is Head covering labelmates Familjen and their new single "Det var jag": http://www.adrianrecordings.com/default.asp?newsid=281

Leaders Off album coming in September

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 19:15:18 -0400

Swedish noiserockers Leaders Off will release the album "Giant guitar" on September 8. Hear the single/title track at Bandcamp: http://leadersoff.bandcamp.com/
RIYL Division of Laura Lee.

Blood Harvest to release Maveth MLP

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:11:00 -0400

Swedish label Blood Harvest will be releasing a 4-track MLP from Finnish act Maveth entitled "Of serpent & shadow". Listen to the band at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/maveth666

New Phonophani reviewed at Themilkfactory

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:31:54 -0400

Themilkfactory reviews the new Phonophani album "Kreken": http://www.themilkfactory.co.uk/st/2010/07/phonophani-kreken-rune-grammofon/
I have yet to hear it myself, but I am immensely curious as I'm a big fan of both Phonophani and Alog.

Kvelertak to tour UK with Coliseum

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:11:55 -0400

Norwegian hardcore act Kvelertak will be supporting Americans Coliseum for a batch of UK dates:

11/17 - Underworld, London
11/18 - Sugarmill, Stoke On Trent
11/19 - Ivory Blacks, Glasgow
11/20 - The Well, Leeds
11/21 - The Marquee, Norwich

The Deer Tracks plan trilogy

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:09:13 -0400

The Deer Tracks have sequestered themselves in a cabin outside G�vle to work, not just on a new album, but on a full trilogy: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=156053091&blogId=537367677

Fucking Werewolf Asso - Kid! Just letting you know we are doing it again (Alleycat Records)

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:06:00 -0400

Fucking Werewolf Asso are the remains of the hardcore band Go With Fourteen O, namely Dennis Wedin and Martin Svensson. Skepticism spread as I heard the words 8-bit Nintendo hardcore, but the sound of "You got leave shield" made me change my mind. I wasn't a fan and I'm not a fan. But at one point in between the fifth and the sixth listening, I got it and I was somewhat ready to stand up and scream "You'll never be a better gamer than me!" The interest dies pretty quick though, but it leaves you smiling. Fucking Werewolf Asso is made up out of a Nintendo, a Sega Mega Drive, the genuine punk/hardcore/passion screaming and a solid beat from the drum-set. There is a huge amount of energy in there as well as gamer-culture humor. Which makes it a good club-act. Rather than your bus-ride distraction.
- Morten Frisch
Rating: 7

�ntligen!

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:07:48 -0400

Grattis till Carina och Ola!

Kristofer �str�m - Twentyseven (live)

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:37:03 -0400

Kristofer �str�m is giving away a nice live version of "Twentyseven" as a free download: http://kristoferastrom.com/news/a-little-gift-2/

Robyn - Hang with me

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:24:09 -0400

Robyn's new single "Hang with me" (not the acoustic version from "Body talk pt. 1") is apparently starting to make the rounds. Hear a radio rip at YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCI1YkP5zyc
As for her Letterman appearance that so many people are buzzing about, I think it's okay, but it's a bummer that she's so reliant on pre-recorded backing vocal tracks. Doesn't sound very "live", y'know?

This week's Last.fm chart

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:05:26 -0400

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

01. Kent
02. CEO
03. Robyn
04. Bob Hund
05. Familjen
06. H�kan Hellstr�m
07. The Radio Dept.
08. Laakso
09. Shout Out Louds
10. The National

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/

Vintergatan - Ny v�rld (video)

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 14:57:33 -0400

Apparently Vintergatan is a new project from Lorentz & M. Sakarias? Accurate or not, I'm into it. More: http://back-before-92and93-you-didnt-give-a-damn-about-warren-g.com/ (yes, that is their actual www address)

Supersci - Snap out of it

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 13:10:54 -0400

I'm becoming increasingly obsessed with seeking out dystopian themes in music, and while that's usually the province of punk/hardcore/metal, it's not as if they have a monopoly. For example, Supersci's new single "Snap out of it" takes on the subject with a slightly more optimistic bent, kicking things off with a folksy polska intro. Now I'm normally not all that into Swedish hip-hop in English since it's almost all garbage, but Supersci rises above with smarts and talent. Rapping about mortgages might seem like lamest thing ever on paper, but shit is serious and while I don't know how pervasive the burst housing bubble is abroad, it's an epidemic over here. I'm doing fine (thanks for asking), but foreclosures are bringing things down all around me. As for rallying against corporate infotainment, that's nothing new, but no less vital. The world is going down the drain, believe it -- now what are you going to do about it?

Victims tourblog

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:56:09 -0400

Victims are keeping a tourblog: http://punkrockandcoffee.blogspot.com/2010/07/gdynia.html

Three new releases from Kalligrammofon

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:41:41 -0400

The excellent Swedish experimental label Kalligrammofon has unveiled three new releases:

R�d Kjetil & The Loving Eye of God - s/t CS
Bird by Snow - Songbread/Another ocean CS
Tsukimono - Gotta sing b/w gotta dance 7"

Hit up their website for full details: http://www.kalligrammofon.com/

I Break Horses - Wired

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:38:41 -0400

Swedish indie/shoegazers I Break Horses are streaming a new track at myspace, the first fully mixed sample off their forthcoming debut on Bella Union: http://www.myspace.com/ibreakhorsesandhearts
I Break Horses features Maria Lind�n from the similarly-minded act Blackstrap who will reportedly have a new single of their own sometime around October.

More 7"s from Detest in September

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:44:10 -0400

In addition to the previously announced Morbus Chron 7", Belgium's Detest Records will also be releasing a new 7"s in September from Swedish death metal act Veternus and a surprise unnamed act.

Robyn live @ Pitchfork

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:33:58 -0400

Robyn's entire set from this weekend's Pitchfork Music Festival is up on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/colandriel#g/c/141CE2B99456C235

New Lo-Fi-Fnk 7" coming in September

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:25:04 -0400

Swedish electro act Lo-Fi-Fnk will release the new 7" single "Sleepless" on September via Moshi Moshi, their 2nd release for the hyped UK label. If anyone is looking for a copy of the first one ("Change channel"), chat me up -- I've got a mint unplayed copy to get rid of.

Bedroom Eyes album coming in August

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:10:11 -0400

The new Bedroom Eyes record "The long wait champion" will be released on August 25. Hear the single "Hand-in-hand grenade" at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bedroomeyes

Let it be written, in blood

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:57:20 -0400

Watain posters, screened with blood: http://www.printmag.com/Article/Blood-Work

Ikons - Africa (video)

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:49:26 -0400

The visual imagery is a bit trend-heavy (ie, indian/modern primitive dress + triangles), but the track is stellar. I've yet to pick up the LP version of this, but I think I'm gonna hafta pull the trigger sometime soon -- it's a great record. Direct link: http://vimeo.com/13394278

Tomas Halberstad confirms single details

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:44:44 -0400

Tomas Halberstad has confirmed that his new double a-side single "Summer love AA" feat. "Watch the tears" b/w "Must be in love" will be officially released on August 10: http://tomashalberstad.com/2010/07/19/summer-love-aa-20100810/
Look for an animated video from Stewart Smith soon.

Sirius playlist week #29

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:25:07 -0400

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

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

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

This week's top 20 Norwegian album chart

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 19:15:55 -0400

This week's top 20 Norwegian album chart:

01. Hellbillies - Leite etter lykka
02. Madrugada - Industrial silence
03. Susanne Sundf�r - The Brothel
04. Kvelertak - Kvelertak
05. Karpe Diem - Aldri Solgt En L�gn
06. Aasmund Nordstoga - Friaren
07. Tre Sm� Kinesere - Kj�rlighet p� tunga
08. Alexander Rybak - No Boundaries
09. Celine - Jentekveld
10. Donkeyboy - Caught in a Life
11. Lars Vaular - Helt om natten, Helt om dagen
12. Gitarkameratene - Kanon! Gitarkameratenes aller beste
13. Liv Marit Wedvik - Solid Ground
14. Knutsen & Ludvigsen - Dum og Deilig - Knutsen og Ludvigsen
15. Venke Knutson - Smiles - The Very Best Of
16. A-ha - Hunting high and low
17. Steff Nevers - Ain't no bad life
18. Diverse artister - Go'natt
19. Trond Granlund - Sanger jeg l�rte av faren min
20. A-ha - Scoundrel days

This week's top 20 Swedish album chart

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 19:13:23 -0400

This week's top 20 Swedish album chart:

01. Kent - En plats i solen
02. Robyn - Body talk pt.1
03. Brolle - Best of
04. Eric Gadd - Rise up!
05. Lasse Stefanz - Texas
06. Lisa Nilsson - 20 - En jubileumssamling
07. Eric Saade - Masquerade
08. Kalle Mmoraeus - Underbart
09. Ted G�rdestad - Helt n�ra dig - Samlade album
10. Melissa Horn - S�g ingenting till mig
11. H�kan Hellstr�m - Samlade singlar 2000-2010
12. The Playtones - Rock'n roll dance party
13. Oskar Linnros - Vilja bli
14. Eddit Meduza - Rockabilly rebel
15. Lars Winnerb�ck - T�nk om jag �ngrar mig och sen �ngrar mig igen
16. Jannez - Se p� oss nu
17. The Ark - In full regalia
18. Kent - Kent box 1991-2008
19. Salem al Fakir - Ignore this
20. Timoteij - L�ngtan

Fibes, Oh Fibes! - Love will always find a way (video)

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 15:00:06 -0400

Here's the new Fibes, Oh Fibes! video for "Love will always find a way": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sn39wkvo8mU

New Enslaved album confirmed

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:49:41 -0400

The new Enslaved album "Axioma Ethica Odini" has been confirmed for release on September 27. Expect a preview to appear on myspace in four days or so: http://www.myspace.com/enslaved

Friendly Noise #6

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 13:37:35 -0400

The sixth issue of the Friendly Noise webzine is now online: http://www.friendlynoise.se/fzn/6/

Hunt - Ashes of a secret heart

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 13:32:09 -0400

Hunt is the new band of Susanna Brandin from Winter Took His Life and "Ashes of a secret heart" is the title track to their debut EP. It's not a huge departure from Susanna's previous project -- we're still very much in slowcore territory -- but the full-band instrumentation allows her to explore much bigger dynamics. This song in particular takes a little while to get going, but when it does, oh does it ache! The pain, loneliness and 2nd guessing is further magnified by Jonas Odhner's (Sonores) superbly ethereal production, as he ably captures the final swell of the music as it drifts to its conclusion, a like a wake breaking on the shore. This is beautiful melancholy, as Scandinavia does best.

New Isobel & November EP in September

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:53:51 -0400

Swedish goth-country act Isobel & November will be releasing a new EP on September 1 which will include recent live closing tune "Last feather flown" as well as some "other songs that somewhat deviate from our earlier work."

Pen Expers - Dirty tender love (Alleycat Records)

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:06:34 -0400

"Dirty tender love" will be record number three for the band Pen Expers and, as before, this newest album features dark rock � la Sweden, meaning gloomy and depressing. Pen Expers really have the ability to influence the mood of the listener with their music, so it might not always be the most fitting choice as it will ruin your day. Maybe this is a feature that comes with good, honest music, however, I often find that Pen Expers leave their genuine sound for more stereotypical dark rock'n'roll during this record. At times the desperation from Alexander Arvman's vocals seem borrowed. This is doubtless good music though and Pen Expers is a good band -- they truly shines through on the track "Don't you wanna kiss me anymore?" -- but they are also good enough to make their own genre rather than trying to fit into already made-up categories.
- Morten Frisch
Rating: 6

Bastard Priest preorder is a go

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:44:40 -0400

For the death metal fiends, Bastard Priest's debut LP "Under the hammer of destruction" is now available for preorder: http://www.bloodharvest.se/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=1917

PopMatters reviews Watain

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:36:56 -0400

PopMatters reviews the latest Watain album "Lawless darkness": http://www.popmatters.com/pm/review/127233-watain-lawless-darkness/

Casiokids win A-ha million

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:59:02 -0400

As predicted, Casiokids picked up the fourth and final of the $1-million NOK A-ha stipend awards.

Kvoteringen members launch new label

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:23:59 -0400

Larre and Calle from Kvoteringen has started a new label called De:Nihil and are planning on releasing new 7"s from Kvoteringen and Nitad in the near future: http://www.myspace.com/denihilrecords

Siena Root live in Spain

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:26:15 -0400

Swedish psychrockers Siena Root are heading to Spain in November:

Adventure Of - Malaika/Jehovah (Tack F�r Ig�r)

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:04:57 -0400

Despite what Adventure Of might temporarily convince you, brat doesn't come in as many flavors as one might think. Mining the well of youthful indiscretions that make The Tough Alliance tick, there isn't a synth, horn, or sentiment on "Malaika" or "Jehovah" That hasn't been done before. However, even while busy basking in the glory of its own electro retread, there are still enough guilty pleasures to get your ass out on the dance floor -- and clean out all trances of cynicism along the way. Not bad for a pair of singles.

Case in point? The particularly amusing, The Killers referencing, "Jehovah" b-side "Soul little body". "I've got soul and I am a soldier." My knee-jerk cynical response? "Congrats dude, you've just lapped Brandon Flowers in the Narcissism Olympics! Yea!" My actual response after the horns, monotone delivery, and tropical sentiment had time to settle in? Somewhere between elation and awkward head-bobbing. Point: Adventure Of. "A fluke!" the cynic might cry -- quick to mention The Embassy has been kicking around the same passive-cool beats for a while now. But perhaps the band says it best in "Anno domini": "If you're special then I'm special too." While it seems unlikely Adventure Of will be able to parlay their well-worn routine into anything more that a few high-energy quips, they'll have you believing the hype as long as the record spins.
- Laura Studarus
Rating: 6

Giana Factory confirm album release, post single for preview

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:08:59 -0400

Danish act Giana Factory has confirmed the release of their debut full-length "Save the youth" for September 21. Hear the first single "Rainbow girl" at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/gianafactory

Dear Euphoria interview at Indie Win

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:06:11 -0400

Music blog Indie Win talks to Elina Johansson of Dear Euphoria: http://indiewin.com/2010/07/interview-elina-johansson-of-dear-euphoria/

"Invocation of death" now available

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:03:03 -0400

Swedish cassette-only metal label Death Invocation has just released their first comp "Invocation of death" and are streaming a couple teaser samples at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/deathinvocation

EVB talks to Air France

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 13:00:03 -0400

East Village Boys interviews Air France ahead of their upcoming NYC DJ gigs: http://www.eastvillageboys.com/2010/07/13/air-france-departing-from-ps1-to-the-balearic-islands-or-sweden/

Fang Bomb announces upcoming releases

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:54:28 -0400

Swedish experimental label Fang Bomb has announced the following releases for later this year:

Neghantil - tba (2xCS/box)
Jasper TX - The black sun transmissions (CD/mp3)
The Cray Twins (SCO) - The pier (CD/mp3)
I Am A Vowel (UK) - Body curves 7"

There are other 7" projects in the works as well, along with an album from international artist Paul Baran and a new G�teborg-focused cassette compilation.

Three Germany dates for Bj�rn Kleinhenz

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:44:07 -0400

Bj�rn Kleinhenz will be doing three German dates at the end of the month before taking a bit of a break:

07/29 - Schokoladen, Berlin
07/30 - Hafen 2, Offenbach
07/31 - Landluft Festival, Schwabm�nchen

Jasmine Kara - Try my love (video)

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:10:56 -0400

I can't think of any notable ska/rocksteady coming out of Sweden in recent years except maybe Club Killers, but this new Jasmine Kara single, the 2nd off her forthcoming record "Blues ain't nothing but a good woman gone bad" (due out July 28, the day after she appears on "Alls�ng P� Skansen"), mops the floor with 'em. Most of her tunes are on more of a retro Sharon Jones/Motown-revival tip, but this one brings the island flavor and does it amazingly well. Seems kinda like an odd stylistic choice considering her obvious mainstream pop aspirations, though it's not as if I'm complaining, I'm just hoping she can pull it off. And with her autobiography ("H�lsa henne att hon ska d�") coming out in August as well, we'll just have to wait and see how it all plays out. Best of luck!
Direct video link: http://vimeo.com/12060510

New Wasted EP in September

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 18:08:34 -0400

Finnish punkrockers Wasted will be releasing a new EP in September called "Modern world is dead", their first new release since 2005's "Heroes amongst thieves".

Pato Pooh - Imperfectly perfect (video + mp3)

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:20:17 -0400

Swedish rapper Pato Pooh has a new track and video: http://patopooh.com/2010/07/09/new-video-mp3-pato-pooh-ricky-imperfectly-perfect/

Rune Grammfon to release new comp, Supersilent album, more

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:13:34 -0400

Rune Grammofon has announced a few more new releases for August, besides the upcoming 4CD boxset version of "Timothy's monster" as previously discussed. First, they'll be doing a comp entitled "Twenty centuries of stony sleep" as release #100 which will feature "13 exclusive gems from 'old', more recent and new artists" and will be available on both CD and LP as well as an extra-special edition in 100 copies. No details on what that means exactly, but considering some of the label's other packaging, I'm sure it'll be way nice. They're also releasing Supersilent's new album "10" which contains the group's very first recordings as a trio, captured at Oslo's Rainbow Studio and said to be the "most acoustic offering" from the band yet.