Mando Diao's latest release came in October, and for some unknown reason I seem to have missed it. Having now appropriated it, it is clear that the singer/songwriting duo of Daniel Häglund and Björn Dixgärd had a very ambitious plan for the Swedish band. The album of B-Sides spans two CDs packed full of great Euro-Pop-Rock tracks. The sum of it's harmonious vocals accompanied by catchy hooks and a vibrant brass section make this one of the must listen releases of the year.
The influences on their musical style are too numerous to list (Garage, Blues, Gospel, 60's Pop Rock, etc..), but are mixed beautifully. To me it sounds like their Swedish counterparts The Hives, though more melodious and adventurous, with smarter lyrics, topped with a warm classic rock feel. Mr. Dixgärd and Häglund deliver smooth Paul McCartney like vocals that make it very easy and pleasing to listen to.
The band has managed to remain relatively unknown to us folks across the pond, and i'm still wondering why to this day. All I know is that we've been missing out on yet another great European group. Sweden has been home to some of the greatest new rock and pop acts in the last decade, and most of the world is completely and shamefully unaware. I guess we're stuck with Lady Gaga and 50 Cents, while across the pond they get to enjoy more thoughtful music.
For the unitiated I would suggest to listen to their second release, "Ode to Ochrasy" before adventuring through this double release, as it was by far their best work. Though I can't for the life of me find a bad song on either CDs. Now if you'll excuse me, i'm going back to revisit this album and their entire catalog....once again.
Rating: 8/10
Videos:
Hail The Sunny Days
Long Before Rock'n'Roll (Live) A "must watch" to "get" what the band is all about. /end quotation marks
Good Morning Herr Horst (Another great Live version)
A Hard Day's Night cover (Not at all what you'd expect)
Cinderella
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