Mockingbird has a knack for catchy song-writing and a brilliant pop sensibility.
Mockingbird, Wish Me Luck – The Days Come and Go
http://www.blowup.co.uk/records/artists/mockingbirdwishmeluck/ http://www.konkurrent.nl/
Not to be confused with a punk band from California of the same name, Mockingbird, Wish Me Luck originate from the town of Ängelholm in Sweden. Their label (Blowup records) describes them as an eight-piece pop-orchestra, and as characterisations go this is pretty accurate. Their debut album, Days Come And Go, holds sharp pop melodies comprised of customary guitar and drums, along with keyboard, brass, woodwind and vocal harmonies. The result is a beautifully crafted and flowing record. One of the best features of ‘Days is the lead vocal from Joakim, and the highlights of the record are the tracks Summer Again, Step In Concrete and New Beginnings where his singing resounds with emotion. Lyrically, Mockingbird tap into the great tradition of songwriters who eruditely bemoan failed romance and yearn for fresh opportunities (have songs been written about anything else?). “So take me out tonight/take me somewhere where someone cares” pleads Joakim (or Mozzer – Ed) on Let’s Watch The Sunrise, and on Step In Concrete he worries “I wake up with empty bottles next to me/the smell of apathy”. This could have given the songs a maudlin edge, but the punch of the album is ultimately uplifting because of the music the lyrics are set to. When the instrumental section of the band find their rhythm – with thumping drums, Marr-esque jangly lead-guitar and deeply resonating trumpet – the songs have a sparkling energy.Scandinavian music may not get the most coverage but, as with other Swedish bands who I have heard, Mockingbird has a knack for catchy song-writing and a brilliant pop sensibility. ‘Indie pop’ aficionados will not find much innovation here, but should gain pleasure from hearing the latest addition to the genre. “It gets harder every year to wake up in the same old room,” sings Joakim on Summer Again, but listening to this album makes it more bearable.Words: Craig Pearce