First off, with a cover like this, who could not want to check this band out? A less-than-subtle wink toward the "Salem's Lot" movie poster that works wonderfully in the context of the band, it's this initial reference point that finds me eager to hear what Ghost sound like. As far as the music goes -- what an unexpected (and welcome) style! Ghost sound more like 1970s New York than 2010s Stockholm. Describing this in terms of labels is probably best done by calling it classic black or black prog, as Ghost offer a sound that's synonymous with that of classic rock genres from days gone by. They've often been compared to Blue Öyster Cult and they do, indeed, convey that style throughout "Opus eponymous". But there's more of an edge to Ghost's sound, a heavier output that's more in tune with Sabbath or Led Zep. Where the black fits into all this is in the subject matter, with a distinctly satanic outlook prevailing throughout the recording. Production-wise, this could have benefitted from a bit more punch, as the recording is a tad flat, particularly on the guitars. But the highs most certainly outweigh the lows on here, and Ghost have undoubtedly released one of the most original albums within the realm of metal in a long time. - John Norby
After an extended break due to depression and divorce, Sweden's definitive dark ambient label is once again getting the ball rolling: http://www.coldmeat.se/home.html
Many new releases are reportedly planned, the first of which being the 3CD/3LP box "Very little fun" from Brighter Death Now.
Swedish icon Kajsa Grytt will be releasing a new album and autobiography in April, both under the title "En kvinna under påverkan". The album was produced by Jari Haapalainen and will be released on April 13, the book does not yet have a 100% confirmed date.
Bob Hund will be releasing the new single "Popsång (mot min vilja)" on February 21 with the new album "Det överexponerade gömstället" to follow on March 16.
has announced the signing of Stockholm-based beardos Obrero, a band that features ex-Protector vocalist Martin Missy. Expect an album in April, otherwise hear some sample tunes at myspace: http://www.myspace.com/obreroswe
Swedish indiepoppers Billie the Vision & the Dancers are putting together a best-of compilation featuring cuts from all five of their albums for release this spring which will also include a bonus disc of various friends and role models covering their songs.
It's no secret that September is my favorite mainstream pop act and one of the few I follow, which is not to say I'm fully stoked on everything she's done post-"In orbit" (a modern pop classic IMO), but there's no denying that her cover of Petter's "Mikrofonkåt" is fantastic. The numbers support it, the track is huge! Well, now there's than English version of said single and while I'm not as crazy about it as the original på svenska, it's still a quality pop tune and I really do hope she'll be able to continue her success abroad.
Danish feminist music collective dameUlove has decided to shut down after seven years citing "damen er træt" (the lady is tired) and will be going out with a final party on March 26 at Folkets Hus in Copenhagen featuring Amalia, Heidi Mortenson, DJs Djuna Barnes, Rosa Lux and Ung Flugt, and more.
Ghost