April 10, 2005

Kawaii "If It Shines, We Have It"

This Norwegian group’s name means “cute” in Japanese, and their light-hearted pop approach that really lives up to their name. Occasionally lo-fi but always quaint in their cuteness, the duo of Mats Jorgensen and Hedda Fredly have a charming style that’s not unlike a less-hyper Mates of State. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the record sleeve suggests they recorded this together in their kitchen; this record has the feeling of love written all over it, as the music has an intimacy not seen outside of couple-based bands. The two trade vocal duties throughout, and though the music’s a bit awkward-sometimes the synth-driven melodies feel ‘piped in’-and the music tends to fall on the twee side, the overall sincerity factor of their music will win you over instantly. Personal faves include “Paper Sun,” “Even Lineups” and the closing duet “Hard to Get Sleep.”

--Joseph Kyle

Label Website: http://www.shelflife.com

No comments: