Credit goes to a Power Popaholic reader for turning me on to this Swedish band with a super eclectic pop style. Dynamo Bliss was formed in 2005 in Umeå, Sweden by Mikael Sandström (vocals, guitars), Stefan Olofsson (vocals, bass) and Peter Olofsson (drums, percussion). They perform a blend of progressive pop that draws heavily from classic rock, jazz, folk and psychedelia.
Opening with a classical grand piano and synth altered harmonies on “Junk/Fear of Clouds” it sounds like a lost 10cc track for the first 2 minutes, and then transforms into a Dire Straits styled rocker. The wondrous “No Sense In It” has a compelling series of chords with a Zombies/Beach Boys styled harmony in the chorus. The bands’ gift of melody is no accident, as both Stefan and Peter had been in a Beatles cover band prior to Dynamo Bliss. “Closer To The Heart” adds a bit of Pink Floyd atmospherics, before we get to the gorgeous vocal harmonies, theremin and strumming guitar. The ballad “Thin Air” brings us a Dark Side of The Moon styled guitar solo sure to impress.
“Bird of Passage” recalls Alan Parsons and Genesis in spots, and an awesome electronic clavichord meeting a Spanish guitar is featured in “White Cherry Hill.” Being a pop-prog album it does have a tendency to meander in long elaborate passages well over 4 minutes on several songs. But that’s okay, 21st Century Junk is one great headphones album that deserves attention. Don’t miss it.
This album is da bomb! Right up my Brian Wilson, LSD soaked alley.