
We've all heard the famous whistling tune that echoes throughout Young Folks. This track, amongst others from Peter Bjorn and John's third album Writers Block, has been played pretty much everywhere, not only across radio channels and commercials, but has also been featured on TV shows the likes of Grey's Anatomy, Nip/Tuck and Gossip Girl to name a few. So what's all the hype about anyway? Let's dive into the world of Peter, Bjorn and John to figure out.
PB&J (doesn't that work out nicely?) are a Swedish trio that consist of Peter Moren, Bjorn Yttling and John Erikkson. The young lads formed their band about a decade ago and didn't enjoy much fame in their early days, claiming they were just making music ‘for their amusement'. That all changed in 2006, when they teamed up with Victoria Bergsman (of The Concretes) to unleash the hugely popular Young Folks. In the following year when they released a simple, creative video to back up the 80's inspired track, this band from Stolkhom had truly hit gold.
Writer's Block opens up with a short introductory track of the same name. Let's just say I'm glad its as short as it is. Following on is one of my top picks of the album, Objects of My Affection. The lyrics in the track are as simple as ever, and spoken with much conviction 'I laugh more often now, I cry more often now, I am more me.'
Coming up next is Young Folks, this young band's claim to fame. This one's the undisputed black stallion of the entire album. PB&J were sure wise to choose Victoria Bergsman as their featured artist and were even wiser to throw in a snazzy combo of beats to produce sure shot hit. The next two tracks on the album, Amsterdam and Start to Melt are, well modest at best. For starters, I couldn't quite recognize that they were part of the same playlist.The monotonous rhythm running throughout each song, coupled with vague lyrics weren't exactly my cup of tea. I'd say give it a shot, but you can secretly thank me when you find yourself wondering what they're doing on this album.
Writer's Block takes a route uphill with Up Against the Wall. The vocals seem worlds apart from the last two songs and are more characteristic of PB&J's style. Let's Call it Off is performed by all 3 of the Swedish lads. I was very strongly reminded of the Beatles throughout the track, what with its melodious beats and rock-inspired-folksy feel. The boys have been quite intelligently generous with their use of instruments throughout the album and that clever strategy is bound to help them carve out a niche of their own in the world of alternative/indie rock.
And finally, we have Roll The Credits and Poor Cow to finish off this interesting album. Although the tracks are nothing to write home about, they're indicative of the variety these Swedes have to offer. All in all, quite contrary to its title, Writer's Block is wreaking of creativity and promise. PB&J might not have been around in the music world for very long, but they certainly have great potential.
Admittedly, the album itself has its share of lows as well as highs - but I wouldn't be quick to entirely write off this talented trio. With a little bit more experience under their belt, I can see them setting themselves up for great success in the world of indie music.
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