When this indie-folk duo from Norway released its 2001 debut
Quiet is the New Loud, it lent (for better or worse) a snappy
catchphrase to the burgeoning wave of softly sung, acoustic music that
emerged partly in response to tiresome post-grunge homogeneity. Now on
its third album, the band’s formula has changed little (the harmonies
are the main attraction) but the songwriting is more confident, with
hints of bossa nova and string accents. While not as distinct as some
contemporaries (Sam Beam, Sufjan Stevens), the band demands full
attention, so its warmth and melodies can work its subtle charm into
the fabric of your day.
Mrs. Cold – Kings Of Convenience
This article appears in Nov 12-18, 2009.