Whilst the A-Ha cover is charming enough, the take on Paranoid Android is a simply stunning reappraisal.
Slaraffenland – Sunshine EP
www.slaraffeland.net www.rumraket.com www.konkurrent.nl
A mini LP, or an EP. Take your pick as to the format. Whatever, the 5 tracks that constitute this release are a joy; a bit folksy, a bit dreamy and full of wit and charm. And all this despite the band utilising that most twee of musical accompaniments, a quiet brass section…
Three tracks are self-penned, two are covers. Of the self-penned numbers, the opener I’m a Machine and The Trick are the best. There’s a sense of urgency and restlessness about the music, despite its eclectic, homespun air. It’s a tiny bit reminiscent of Akron/Family’s muse. All the while, the record is driven on by slightly manic chanting vocals, on occasions changing key.
The other tracks are covers of A-Ha’s Take on Me and Radiohead’s Paranoid Android. Whilst the A-Ha cover is charming enough, the take on Paranoid Android is a simply stunning reappraisal.
Check this out and get your plaid shirt on.
Words: Richard Foster