Lykke Li
Youth Novels

THE REVIEW

It's always nice to dust off somewhat "dated" debut albums (from my point of view not so much) of singers who are now at the top. Indeed, Lykke Li, with this debut album, did not manage to reach, as she has now (thanks also to the remix of ''I Follow Rivers''), Europe and America; however, she managed to sell a lot and make herself known in her homeland, Sweden.

There is certainly to say about her that she is a very young girl (at the time 22 years old) with a beautiful voice, very "Scandinavian" (here she often reminds me of Robyn, especially in "Let It Fall"); not the peak of originality, therefore, but certainly aiming for something good.

As for the songs, mainly pop, we find unexpected, excellent arrangements; very sophisticated choirs that support and make many songs wonderful (the sweet "Hanging High", the exuberant "Breaking It Up"), sweet "whispers" (such as the particular, somewhat risky start, "Melodies & Desires", the brief "This Trumpet in My Head"), superb percussion (the sober and sensual "Little Bit", which I adore above all; "Dance, Dance, Dance" with that warm saxophone) electric ballads ("Complaint Department").

(In any case, also remember the single "I'm Good, I'm Gone", the beautiful "Tonight" and the wonderful ending of "Everybody But Me", a synthesis, truly well done and well sung, of all the main elements of the album).

Everything is based, therefore, on a mixture of: pop, electronics, folklore (given by the rich percussion, an element that, expertly fused with her voice, I love more) and solid choirs. Elements that, in reality, suggest something ordinary and already heard but instead make this debut album a real melting pot of influences, yes, but of a fresh and particular artist who also turns out to be innovative; perhaps also because of that Björn Yttling from Peter Björn and John in the production (easily recognizable).

We are talking about a very "timid" and even "discreet" debut album, by an artist who is still insecure. An album that is certainly, however, an excellent prelude to what will be the explosive exuberance of Wounded Rhymes.

To listen to, very enjoyable and "unexpected".

Ps: This is my first review; thanks to those who ventured to read and thanks in advance for all the criticisms aimed at improving myself.