Markus Krunegård
Prinsen av Peking / Lev som en gris dö som en hund
Universal
It's always very difficult to not gush and be objective when reviewing music by your favorite artists, and I have made no secret in the past with my adoration for the songs of Markus Krunegård. It's strange though, because I tend for myself to be skeptical of each new record of his, whether it be the solo material or with Laakso. Yet, each time I step back in awe after the albums have clicked. This year he has delivered two new albums on the same day, and I must admit, was a bit unsure when hearing a song here and there and yet, once again, this has changed after multiple listens. As each record passes, you become aware of how much he is improving lyrically -- they've become less direct, and more poetic -- an attribute one never really associates with modern pop music. Songs like "Prinsessan av Peking" and "Kär i en borderline" are glaring examples of the imagery he has been able to focus on, and the results speak for themselves. The arrangements are also top notch, once again mostly working with longtime comrade Jari Happalainen. Laakso fans will take note that "Dystra utsikter" is a re-appropriation of "Long Beach", yet with the sense of hopeful support shifting to that of desperation seeking relief; "Mitt kvarter" is an ode to his residence. I would be safe to say, that by now, Markus Krunegård has more than cemented his place as one of the top songwriters at the moment.
- Matt Giordano
