MP3: Broder Daniel - Love doesn't last

I had two very different Broder Daniel experiences while traveling in Sweden. The second is the one I will tell you about first because it was near-perfect: late night, at the party for Magnus Öberg's wedding, the song "Underground" came on the soundsystem and the crowd was instantly drawn to the dance floor. We had a similar moment earlier in the evening when The Pixies kicked things off, but it didn't compare. Maybe it was the booze or the joyous atmosphere, but it felt absolutely beautiful. "We are underground and we don't care, we don't care what you say about us" It's an anthem -- I couldn't help but sing along. For anyone who ever felt like the underdog, it's a revelation.

My other experience however, was far more downbeat, but just as moving. Gustaf Kjellvander (The Fine Arts Showcase) and I shared an afternoon when I was in Malmö discussing the importance of BD (among other things), especially the album "Broder Daniel Forever". It's the perfect soundtrack to the downtrodden and the fuckups/the fucked up -- the mood is far darker, but no less celebratory. It revels in the pain and ugliness of life in a way that no other band can do and Gustaf and I agreed that it's a beautiful thing. If your heart aches, if you've ever felt absolutely crushed by life, this is your soundtrack. It's more than teen angst, it's a struggle that continues every day for those who feel like they can't/don't/won't fit in. In other words, an album for everyone. Now just wait until you hear Gustaf's new record. Gbg's #1 antiheroes bow out one last time at Way Out West in August, but The Fine Arts Showcase carries the torch onward.

This one's for you Gustaf, take care of yourself man. I hope we meet again soon.

Broder Daniel - Love doesn't last