2010-11-28. Published in Uncategorized
by Nina

So by now, I have been to my fair share of Swedish clubs, bars, and concert venues. I wouldn't say the list is extensive (I mean, who has the money for that?), but if I had a map and spread it out on the table, I could probably point to at least half a dozen. Either way, while each venue  has their unique perks, I often walk away flabbergasted from the music that's played. Maybe I've been going to the wrong places, but I swear every club or party's playing old American music from 2002.

Which is kind of strange, being that Swedish music is not that bad. In fact, I would say I'm starting to develop an obsession. Being here in Göteborg has definitely raised my awareness to Swedish music; thanks to Spotify, the list of new artists to top my playlists has grown exponentially. Before, I was only really familiar with Robyn, Abba, and The Cardigans. But last time I came to Sweden, I managed to download a bit of Cornelis Vreeswijk for home, and pretty much danced to him in my kitchen until I came back. And now I feel like someone opened the floodgates; the music just keeps coming.

For those who are looking for good artists to start, here is a list of the few I have been introduced to early in my stay in Sweden (and a few songs that I've probably played once or twice):

• Håkan Hellström---"River en vacker dröm"..."2 steg från paradise"


• Kent---"Våga Vara Rädd"..."Taxmannen"..."Visslaren"


• El Perro del Mar---"Change of Heart"..."Gotta Give to Get Back"


• Steget---"Baby, baby, baby"..."Vad Ska Jag Göra"


• Petter---"Storstadsidyll"..."Stockholm i mitt hjärta"..."Logiskt"

Forgive me if those of you who are fans of the bands above don't feel that the tracks exemplify their music. I'm still learning. But if you have suggestions for other songs, or other good Swedish artists, I encourage you to list 'em below!

And for those of you want to get acquainted to the famous Cornelis Vreeswijk, I suggest "Somliga går med trasiga skor"--or--"Some people go without shoes" (I think that's the English translation, though don't trust me on that one). And if you want to know what the fuss is about with him, click here. Spotify also gives a great background on this famous Swedish ballad singer.

Happy Listening.