The most delicious thing to come out of Sweden since meatballs is the un-paralleled band, Mando Diao. Their 14-track sophomore album, "Hurricane Bar," is packed with catchy songs, stunning guitar solos and a colorful array of sounds.
Their 2002 debut album "Bring 'Em In" made musical big wigs buzz and catapulted Mando Diao to stardom in North America, Europe and, particularly, Japan. Following the triumph of their debut, the band toured in 2003 with bands such as the Thrills, Kent and Jet.
After their worldwide tour, the band traveled to Bath, England to work on their follow-up album after they were contacted by Richard Rainey, who produced U2's album "All That You Can't Leave Behind."
Mando Diao is comprised of: Gustaf Noren, vocals/guitar; Bjorn Dixgard, also on vocals/guitar; Carl-Johan Fogelklou, bass; and Samuel Giers, drums. By having two lead vocalists, the band differs from other rock acts. Throughout "Hurricane Bar," Noren and Dixgard exchange the vocal spotlight and create melodious variations of sound, atmosphere and mood.
Rich lyrics are enhanced by the composure of the instrumentation, and give the album a well-rounded mix of both upbeat and soft songs. "Bring 'Em In" included instruments such as horns and string instruments.
However, "Hurricane Bar" does not include such dramatic sounds, but instead hints at more real, raw rock.
The overall tone of "Hurricane Bar" delivers a sound that is magnetic and intriguing. The songs will become etched in your mind, but not in a "get this song out of my head" sort of way.
Instead, the songs bring about feelings of nostalgia and carefree days that both parents and youth can jam to.
The album includes catchy, upbeat songs such as the opening track "Cut the Rope" and "God Knows" as well as songs like "If I Leave You" and "You Can't Steal My Love," which present the capabilities of the band to have contrasting moods on the album as these songs are somewhat tragic and slower in comparison to other songs.
The astounding sound of mellow songs such as "All My Senses" and "Added Family" bring about images of a 60's hippie lifestyle that contribute to the retro feel of the album.
"Ringing Bells" is a major departure from the other songs on "Hurricane Bar," and it is in a league of its own. The light and fluffy atmosphere of the song evokes the sensation of frolicking in a field of daisies. It is not an airy song by any means; rather, it captures the essence of lightheartedness and creativity that other musicians lack in their songs.
"Hurricane Bar" also offers humor, particularly in the track "Kingdom & Glory." With lyrics like "took your wife and your dog…life is bad," the listener is sure to chuckle and enjoy the frenzy of bounce and wit.
The members' names might be tricky to pronounce, but don't forget them, because Mando Diao is sure to continue to make amazing, creative songs that will strike a chord with people from several generations.
