Jettie "Kites For Charity" (Eyeball)
By Kimberly Rosenbauer
Wednesday. Jan 23, 11:44 AM
Serenely intense.

If ever there was a band that could turn your head because of its power, and also lull you into a daze of serenity, Jettie is it. Somehow the fact that this duo is from Sweden seems to help that cause. On their second album Kites for Charity, Jettie share the same echoing vocals and complimentary harmonies as they masterfully achieved on their debut. Yet it’s not just “more of the same” like many bands end up doing on their follow-up to a great idea.

Without insulting the distinctive sound that Jettie have – and I mean this in the best way possible – Kites for Charity is radio-ready. That’s almost a dirty thing to say nowadays. But what I really mean is that their tracks are consistently melodious and interesting, and as a result will be universally liked. Songs like opener “Start/Stop” have quick guitar solo lines and complicated, syncopated rhythms for the musically inclined, as well as easy chorus/verses and building dynamics for those who just want something for the commute.

But even though such songs may sound simple on the surface to some, all of the tracks are very intricate at heart. There are usually so many things going on at once. On “#3 The Nest & the Wind,” the two band members and some additional musicians play their own melodies and harmonies almost in a round-style, creating a very orchestral feel. Guitarist/vocalist Clas Bohman also has such a distinctive and emotion-laden voice, almost like he’s pleading to get someone to hear him. On closer “Letter Carrier,” Bohman makes you want to cry. But for a good reason. By the end of the album, if you’re really paying attention, you’ve been through a truly intense experience without any loud thrashing cymbals, over-amped guitar chords, or vocals that make you hold your throat. Through softer sounds, every bit meticulous and deeply meaningful, you can somehow get the same effect.

Jettie are powerful.
www.jettieband.com
www.eyeballrecords.com

Click here to buy this album on iTunes!

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Kimberly Rosenbauer

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