Loney, Dear: Loney, Noir

Label: Sub Pop

Yes, we love Scandanavia, and this week seems particularly heavy on releases from that part of the world (appropos given the weather), so here’s another. Loney, Dear (unlike Peter Bjorn & John, they like commas …) is the work of Emil Svanängen, a gifted Swedish songsmith not abashed to wear his heart on his sleeve on this superb debut. Loney, Noir was recorded in his home studio, bringing a warmth and intimacy to the music. Svanängen’s voice is one of the most expressive we’ve heard in a while; a lilting falsetto capable of enormous emotional range, most effective when used in the service of pop that sounds straight out of the ‘70s songbook (“I Am John,” “Saturday Night”). The music flows nicely. It’s always pleasing, and Svanängen is not afraid to throw in a touch of the baroque to add some spice to the proceedings: flutes, horn, accordians and other electronics. But the instruments never overwhelm; Svanängen wisely lets his voice and hooks shine here, giving us a winning record. (Ralph)