E V O L U T I O N
Sweden has produced a lot of great music during the last decade. Pop-music, most notoriously, preferrably with a twist of something exotic, to take us away from gloom and harsh winters. But we're in a new decade now.
BANDJO debuted in 2008, contributing to the first compilation of "Force Majeure; Force Vol.1: Tunguska", making up the whole B-side of that album with the noisy instrumental ”Black Corner” and the harmonical ”Icon”. Next out was the single "Fátima" - recorded and produced in Gotland, Sweden, during the end of that same summer. Shut away in solitude the band was already moving away from the explosive disco inspired sound of the first release. If "Black corner" was raw power set free at the birth of the band, "Fatima" was BANDJO learning to speak. It blended down their world of odd sound into a structured pop song that has to be listened to over and over for to see all the pieces.
And now they return with their first full length album - like skipping a few steps on the evolutionary chain and starting to run with your first steps, to finish the metaphor.
BANDJO’s first album stretches out like a fan, with some parts shimmering intensely and others remaining calm and collected. Then with a swift stroke of the hand, the whole picture changes and a brand new soundscape emerges. Because of the larger format this time around, the songs have been allowed to transform into their fullest potential, covering not only your basic need for speed and power but also the longing for sensitivity and something more laid back. The whole spectrum of the BANDJO universe is covered, and there's a strong contrast between the songs. "Haze Over" could be a lost lullaby from ancient times while songs like "You & the Sun" and "Unknown Island" reminisce more of the intensity of a rock band.
The Swedish prog scene of the 70's is a strong influence, but the sound is constantly blackened by a more harsh new wave-influence, as well as always keeping the grinding feel of kraut close at hand.
A new factor to the sound is the use of guest performers. Being far from an ordinary recording period, BANDJO has had the whole of 2009 to find the people and places that would become part of the record. The flute is featured heavily throughout the record, becoming an invaluable companion to the regular guitars and drones, and the female voice recurring in several songs gives the music a new angle.
Truly a group effort, with no pressure time wise, this record is the most complete work yet from BANDJO. A double-sided breeze of fresh air, brought to you by Sweden’s Force Majeure.
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