A Year in Swedish Sounds: Exploring the Top 20 Albums of 2024
The Swedish music scene in 2024 vibrated with a diverse range of sounds, from melancholic folk ballads to pulsating synthpop and introspective jazz. DN’s music critics curated a list of the year’s top 20 Swedish albums, showcasing the breadth and depth of artistic talent flourishing within the country. This expanded summary delves into the top 20 albums, exploring their unique contributions to the musical landscape.
Top Tier: A Blend of Grief, Innovation, and Sonic Exploration (1-5)
Amanda Bergman’s "Your hand forever checking on my fever" claimed the top spot, a poignant exploration of grief following the loss of her father. The album’s title itself embodies a poetic beauty that resonates throughout the record. Bergman’s signature vocals, reminiscent of classic rock icons, blend seamlessly with a contemporary sound, creating a timeless quality. Thåström’s "Somliga av oss," his most subdued album since 2005, secured the second position. The album maintains a majestic and contemplative atmosphere, exploring cryptic lyrics through industrial ballads and atmospheric soundscapes. Iris Viljanen’s "Själsligt uppvaknande vid Slussen" rounds out the top three, captivating listeners with her blend of stripped-down folk ballads and melodic pop narratives. Sung in Finland-Swedish, the album explores themes of everyday life and personal struggles with a touching sincerity.
Kite’s "VII," remarkably their first full-length album after years of building a devoted following, landed at number four. The duo’s unique blend of synthpop and spectacular stage presence finally coalesced into a cohesive and highly anticipated album. The compilation features many previously released tracks, proving their enduring appeal. Annarella and Django’s "Jouer" secured the fifth position, offering a mesmerizing blend of folk and funk. The duo’s debut album features Annarella Sörlin’s flute and Django Diabaté’s ngoni, creating a tranquil and uplifting sonic tapestry that evokes images of a sun-drenched meadow.
Midfield Marvels: From Introspective Pop to Hypnotic Jazz (6-10)
Annika Norlin and Jonas Teglund’s collaborative effort, "En tid att riva sönder," captured the essence of solace and reflection, born from shared experiences of hardship. Norlin’s insightful lyrics, coupled with the album’s understated yet hopeful musicality, offer comfort and understanding. Goran Kajfes Tropiques’ "Tell us" offered a captivating journey into the world of hypnotic jazz. Kajfes masterfully blends influences from spiritual jazz, Swedish prog, minimalism, and Balkan music, creating a postmodern soundscape that pushes the boundaries of genre.
Henning’s "Cowboy från rymden" revitalized the Swedish rock scene with its unique blend of Neil Young-inspired rock, 80s influences, and a touch of funk. The album reimagines the sounds of Gothenburg, Henning’s hometown, while expanding the possibilities of Swedish indie rock. El Perro del Mar’s "Big anonymous," based on a five-year-old theatre project, presented Sarah Assbring’s consistently brilliant songwriting in an album that explores themes of grief and longing with a bittersweet pop sensibility. Rounding out the top ten, KaahSoul’s "Färger" offered a seamless blend of Prince-inspired funk, 80s R&B, and classic Swedish folk melodies, a testament to Kaah’s long-standing presence in the Swedish music scene.
Beyond the Top Ten: A Diverse Array of Sounds (11-20)
The remaining ten albums showcased a diverse array of musical talent and experimentation. Dina Ögon’s "Orion" captivated with its blend of soul and pop, while Stella Explorer’s "Absolute Music 2/5" highlighted her continuous sonic exploration. HNNY’s "Light shines through" offered a melancholic yet beautiful electronic experience, and Opeth’s "The last will and testament" delivered another complex and signature dose of progressive death metal.
Benjamin Ingrosso’s "Pink velvet theatre" showcased his confident pop sensibilities, while 1900’s "Kontragarde" offered a retro-futuristic soundscape. Ant Wan’s "Wanderland" delved into personal themes of love, paranoia, and violence, and Nils Berg Cinemascope’s "Seven colours of the universe" presented a bold and direct jazz experience. Becky and the Birds’ "Only music makes me cry now" combined dreamy vocals with vibrant beats, and Little Jinder’s "Romantik på svenska" explored melancholic club scenes with poignant accuracy.
A Rich Tapestry of Sound: Reflecting the Swedish Musical Landscape
The top 20 albums of 2024, as selected by DN’s music critics, painted a vibrant picture of the Swedish music scene. From introspective explorations of grief and loss to innovative blends of genre and sonic experimentation, these albums showcased the diverse and dynamic talents shaping the sounds of Sweden. The list stands as a testament to the continuing evolution and creative energy within the country’s musical landscape.
