Review: A Camp - Colonia (* * * *)

A Camp's U.S. debut has been a long time in coming, to put it mildly. The trio, led by Cardigans front woman Nina Persson, released their debut album in 2001, though it never made it to the States. Eight years between records is obviously enough to dissolve any sort of momentum the band may have built (winning four Swedish Grammies), but Persson has earned the right to our attention whenever she unveils new material, and she's certainly got mine. Colonia is a charming collection of twelve quaint tracks carried by her beautifully relaxed voice, with husband Nathan Larson and Niclas Frisk (and some friends) helping to create a captivating atmosphere.

It's obvious, right from the beginning of the record, that these songs belong to Persson. She has more than capable musical assistance, to be sure, but it's her amazing voice and tremendous sense of melody that vaults these tunes into such lofty territory. "The Crowning" leads the bunch, a stately waltz paying false homage to some unnamed big shot with a soaring chorus that is absolutely gripping, while lead single, "Stronger Than Jesus," continues the effortlessly gorgeous melodic trend. In fact, though not every songs is spectacular, everything is at least decent, and usually better. Other highlights include the string-laced "Love Has Left the Room," the bluesy piano piece, "I Signed the Line," and a striking duet with fellow Swede Nicolai Dunger, "Golden Teeth and Silver Medals."

Though the record follows a fairly straightforward musical style, the musicians assisting on the album (James Iha, Joan Wasser, and many others) add their unique touch to the songs, expanding Persson's tunes and adding depth to her arrangements. "Here Are Many Wild Animals" combines a groovy, Beach Boys-esque opening with dark, churning guitars, while "My America" includes some fun horn arrangements that give the song a jazzy feel. In some ways, this is a simple pop rock album; it doesn't push borders or offer much that we haven't heard before, but the subtle stylistic variations combined with the obvious quality of the musicianship make it a solid effort and one you should take the time to hear.

If you still need some convincing, you can check out the band's MySpace page, or head over to Stereogum to download "Love Has Left the Room."

Stereogum offers "Love Has Left The Room" download from A Camp

Swedish trio A Camp, led by former Cardigans member Nina Persson, are set to release their sophomore effort and US debut, Colonia, in April. For a taste of the new album, Stereogum is offering an exclusive download of the excellent track "Love Has Left The Room." Click on the link below to go to the download page where you can also find out a bit more about the track from the Nina herself:

'Gum Drop: "Love Has Left The Room"


The new record features 12 songs and guest appearances by James Iha of Smashing Pumpkins, Kevin March of Guided By Voices, and Joan Wasser of Joan as Policewoman. In Sweden, the album is currently #2 on the charts, right behind Bruce Springsteen!

A Camp announce U.S. debut album, Colonia

Swedish trio A Camp doesn't truly fit under the "New Artist" category, but for many of you (and myself) they probably will. The group was formed originally as a duo by The Cardigans front woman Nina Persson and Atomic Swing's Niclas Frisk, though it now includes Persson's husband Nathan Larson, an American filmmaker and musician. Their sophomore album and U.S. debut, Colonia, is set for release on April 28, 2009.

A Camp's sound is classy, organic pop with traces of rock and country (think The Cardinals fronted by a woman) and a variety of strings, keys, and horns spicing things up just a bit. Colonia features several guests, including Joan Wasser of Joan as Policewoman, James Iha of Smashing Pumpkins, and Mark Linkous of Sparklehorse. Persson's smooth voice is the centerpiece though, gentle, effortless, and gorgeous. The band's self-titled first album, released in 2001, earned the group four Swedish Grammies, though apparently the record never made its way to America. Fortunately, that won't be the case this time around.

Go introduce yourself to this great band over at their MySpace page, where you can hear songs both old and new that should give you a taste of what's to come.