Search - Knife :: Knife

Strong Debut

Ross Williams | Columbia, MO, USA | 11/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Knife is one of my favorite bands, and since their debut they've changed their sound fairly dramatically, but on this album there is none of the raw or rough sound that you would expect from a first CD. The production is top-notch, the music is art, it's the sound of a finely honed group. However, there is none of the static music-by-numbers feel that for many draws the line between scratchy indie records and overproduced major label albums. The songs move about, never staying in the same place for too long, leaving the listener with an unpredictable but completely enjoyable feel. What's inside is difficult to describe -- there are techno beats, pop/rock influence, songs with amazing lyrics and instrumentals alike. If you're a fan of their later albums, this record is closer to "Deep Cuts" than "Silent Shout," but combines the pop sensibilities of the former with a touch of the darker feel of the latter. What's particularly impressive, at least for me, is the lead singer's voice. Those who are fans of singers who manipulate their voices like Tom Waits, Mike Patton, or Danny Elfman should wholeheartedly enjoy listening to The Knife's Karin Dreijer Andersson. I don't remember where I came upon this fairly obscure release, particularly living in mid-Missouri, but since I first heard this album I have been a fan. It's the kind of thing that you play for friends in the car: "Oh, man, you've got to hear this..." Highly recommended."

Their Sun Was Only A Faint Glow At First...

M. Nielson | Springfield, MO, USA | 10/20/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Knife are a unique band. Taking elements and progressions from early electronic music, the kinds that tell stories with programming alone without the fail-safe of mainstream acceptance. Ever since their birth the brother-sister duo have been making unique sounds and imagery with their mysterious synth-pop.



Deep Cuts and Silent Shout would only serve to cement them in the history books as yet another of Sweden's prized possessions, but their debut The Knife still has plenty going on for it.



Loopy synth lines and her beautifully charred voice all serve to haunt and please for the duration.. my only concern is some of the songs lack variety for this first effort. And unlike Silent Shout, there's no clear thematic tie, except maybe one of melancholy and longing. If so, it succeeds mildly.



I give this a 4 because the duo are talented and this is still put together well. I suggest you buy their other albums first though and if you like the group enough then completing the collection isn't a bad idea. ^^"

REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Anthony P. Acosta | 01/12/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"An avant garde masterpiece from Sweden. Every song is an adventure musically and lyrically."