Search - Cloudberry Jam :: Blank Paycheck

Sweet & satisfying Jam!

William Timothy Lukeman | 11/21/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"How is it that Sweden keeps giving us such wonderfully delightful music? Cloudberry Jam is one more in a line of superb bands, combining various retro influences into something new & fresh & irresistible. Would Scandinavian pop/lounge/jazz funkiness be an adequate description? They rock out, they lay down luscious grooves, they get bouncy as Bacharach, they get lazily mellow as a bird occasionally darting from branch to branch -- and Jennie Medin's unexpectedly rich & sensuous voice carries it all along, filled with a confident sophistication & plenty of effortless energy.



This is the first of their three full-length CDs, and a fine introduction to the band. There's something of a St. Etienne/Komeda sound here, mixed with the rootsy rock of a band like the Reivers, and a generous helping of horns, strings, and organ riffs. On subsequent CDs they incorporate further influences -- for example, think of Stereolab collaborating with Laura Nyro at her poppiest, with a little Philly soul tossed in as well, to get an idea of the musical leaps they make.



But don't mistake them for nothing but a mish-mash of other styles. While they proudly show their influences, they make a unified & unique sound of their own. Infectiously melodic & catchy, it's perfect party music ... but at the same time, it's equally good as the soundtrack for a solitary, happily reflective day. Highly recommended!"