Viridiflora
High on you 7"
Bow Bells Records

Seems kinda weird for such an obviously mainstream pop-aspiring artist to release their debut via the self-limiting 7" format, but it's not as if I mind. The full-color foldover and white vinyl makes for a nice package that befits the ambitious music contained therein. And ambitious it is: both tracks soar with grandiose Swedish melancholy, no doubt helped considerably by the talents of producer/engineer Rikard Löfgren (Bay Laurel/Leon Music), who also happens to share songwriting credits alongside Jessica Johansson, the artist herself. While Viridiflora's electro/pop is in no way groundbreaking, it is well-executed, especially on the b-side "I bleed you out" which attempts a more personal and mature lyrical approach that appeals to me far more than the vague generalities expressed in "High on you". There's still a bit too much guitar on the far side of corny for me to give it a wholehearted recommendation, but it's still enjoyable.
- Avi Roig