The latest issue of PlaybackSTL is online with a feature on the Shout Out Louds and the latest edition of IAT contributor Kevin Renick's "Norsecode" column: http://www.playbackstl.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1337&Itemid=38
Featured content includes reviews of Jomi Massage, Acid House Kings, Hera, Mum (reissue) and Plat as well as an interview with Iceland's Eberg.

Hera
Don't play this
self-released

I haven't seen much press on Hera outside her native Iceland, but I suspect that situation may change with the release of her new album "Don't play this". Mostly performed with acoustic guitars and minimal backing (with occasionally lively horns), the strength of the album derives from Hera's plaintive, heartfelt vocals and absolutely immaculate sound conjured by her and co-producer Gotmundur Petursson. The upbeat songs like "Feathers in a bag," "Muddy shoes" and "To my guitar" have a crispness that you can almost taste, and tearjerkers like "Adrian" and "Where is your baby" work your emotions honestly, coming from a woman who conveys with every line that she's in touch both with her own feelings and her very healthy muse. And if you're into chocolate, Hera has written a nifty little ode to the stuff that is sure to become a favorite.
- Kevin Renick

The newest edition of Norse Code is online, this time featuring interviews with Hanne Hukkelberg, Sofi Bonde and Hera from Iceland, as well as the usual slew of capsule reviews: http://www.playbackstl.com/Norse/