Lykke Li
Youth Novels (LL Recordings)
By Lindsay Trapnell
Published: August 12th, 2008 | 9:00am
Youth Novels is an apt title for Lykke Li's debut album. Like a Swedish Judy Blume, she spins tales of young love, lust, heartbreak, and alienation — hallmarks of the rocky transition into young adulthood. The album is synth-heavy, but Li infuses it with her rich personality, adding depth and intimacy to what could otherwise have ended up as over-processed pop. Much credit is also due to producers Björn Yttling (of Peter Bjorn and John) and Lasse Marten, who avoid overly slick production and pull out a trove of unconventional instruments to add an organic and unexpected element.
"Love is the symphony / Sing it with me," Lykke Li pleads on breathy opener "Melodies & Desires." While it's a gutsy move to begin the album with an atmospheric chapter (her word for song), one that showcases lyrics spoken rather than sung, the track doesn't make a strong case for accepting her invitation. Any reluctance to join her musical journey soon evaporates with the tribal percussion and simple bass line hook that opens the memorable "Dance, Dance, Dance." Lykke Li's voice — girly sweet with a raspy edge — is a bit jarring initially, but soon proves to be both unique and mesmerizing. Other album highlights include singles "I'm Good, I'm Gone," a spunky song inspired by Lee Dorsey's "Working In a Coal Mine" and the calypso-flavored "Little Bit." Li possesses an uncanny talent for pairing simple, even repetitive, lyrics with defiantly catchy hooks that knock around your head for days. "Tonight" features the repeated refrain "Don't you let me go / Let me go tonight," sung with increasing emotion and urgency over a steady bongo beat with piano, organ, and bells that swell then disappear — leaving only her fragile plea.
Much like Lykke Li herself, who displays dewy vulnerability, coy flirtation, and strong-willed independence, Youth Novels is full of intriguing contradictions: One minute it boasts a dance beat straight out of a European discotheque, another it tenderly evokes Spanish flamenco. Throw in some Bossa and soul, and you've got one eclectic pot of influences. And just when you think it's simply an enjoyable dance-pop album, the 22-year-old flashes an unconventional sophistication that catches you off guard and announces that she's not to be underestimated.
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Issue #35
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