Amason’s new album, Sky City, takes listeners on a journey through cosmic chaos, only to bring you back to earth a little bit changed.
To start off, this Swedish band is absolutely filled the some of Stockholm’s finest. Amanda Bergman from Idiot Wind seduces listeners with her oh-so-raspy voice, leaving you with nothing but goose bumps. The rest of the band consists of Gustav Ejstes from Dungen, Nils Tornqvist and Peter Winnberg from Little Majorette, and Pontus Winnberg from Miiike Snow; all great bands that may soon follow this wave of Swedish wonder.
Together under Amason, these musicians use strictly fast drum beats, ambient guitars, and melodic synth as their main ingredients to concoct this truly unique album. The album begins with strong tracks like “Duvan,” “Kelly,” and “Elefanten.” “Duvan” is the perfect track to get ready to in the morning. With an 80s vibe, you can’t help but smile and feel as though you can take on the day listening to that jazzy piano and synth beats.
“Kelly” is for any of those Abba lovers out there. The Strokes-like drums and wet vocals bring back the class to disco. As for “Elefanten,” psychedelic spacey sounds consume this track, linking those who love Avey Tare and My Morning Jacket under one song.
The album takes an entirely unexpected turn with the song “Velodrome.” At first, the sound is similar to tracks prior, but after some intense piano riffs, Amason inserts recordings of nature accompanied by Spanish-inspired acoustic guitar. Such spacey sounds are then left behind as these musicians take on psychedelic tones like that of Tame Impala, all while Amanda croons about the earth with her magical voice.
After being hit with a twist, tracks like “Yellow Moon,” “Black Fish,” and “The Moon as A Kite” bring about an entirely different vibe (yet again). Amason channels that old school European rock while speakikng to listeners in Swedish and taking you on a roller coaster of tempo in “Black Fish.”
As for “Yellow Moon,” the upbeat synth brings listeners back to Amason’s natural style with an earthy twist. This song could set up a perfect relaxed hang out with a significant other.
A waltz ensues as “The Moon as A Kite” plays through your speakers. Although the music seems cheery, Amanda sings lyrics such as, “ Love is the frozenist part of a lake… Time is a cruelty” to bring an edge of melancholy.
Overall, this album is a perfect gift for valentines. Such songs are perfect background music for any mellow gathering, regardless of the somber lyrics. If you are looking to chill, study, or be at peace with some unique sounds, Sky City is the answer.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a party song to get you hyped up, then steer clear. This is definitely an album for introverted moments.
4/5