The Grand Opening
is the project of Stockholm multi-instrumentalist John Roger Olsson, a
man who is counted among the finest representatives of this art. His
work is seen as featuring what some call ‘the Swedish component’ which
is defined as a deep melancholy woven beautifully into the music.
Thus is what sets it apart from the music of bands Olsson is often
grouped with such as Talk Talk or American Music Club. Alongside that
component that seems to evoke the lonely but romantic image of the
Swedish countryside, Olsson explores themes of a man’s place in his
world and his personal memories of the past, which were inspired by some
old family photos he found.
‘Blacker Than Blue’ is a beautiful, gentle opener that sets the tone for the whole album.
The guitars are slow but it sounds more measured than lazy and the mood
is peaceful. Songs are uncluttered but not stark. The lyrics are given
space to breathe. ‘Towards Your Final Rest’ has the quality of a hymn,
and ‘Free’ is uplifting and forward looking. ‘Old News’ is reflective
and ‘Target’ features unobtrusive but uplifting brass. ‘Over The Fences’
pushes the vocals to the front, and ‘Tired Eyes’ closes proceedings.
Feb 17, 2014
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