Dynamo Bliss "21st Century Junk"

Credit goes to a Power Popaholic reader for turning me on to this Swedish band with a super eclectic pop style. Dynamo Bliss was formed in 2005 in Umeå, Sweden by Mikael Sandström (vocals, guitars), Stefan Olofsson (vocals, bass) and Peter Olofsson (drums, percussion). They perform a blend of progressive pop that draws heavily from classic rock, jazz, folk and psychedelia.

Opening with a classical grand piano and synth altered harmonies on “Junk/Fear of Clouds” it sounds like a lost 10cc track for the first 2 minutes, and then transforms into a Dire Straits styled rocker. The wondrous “No Sense In It” has a compelling series of chords with a Zombies/Beach Boys styled harmony in the chorus. The bands’ gift of melody is no accident, as both Stefan and Peter had been in a Beatles cover band prior to Dynamo Bliss. “Closer To The Heart” adds a bit of Pink Floyd atmospherics, before we get to the gorgeous vocal harmonies, theremin and strumming guitar. The ballad “Thin Air” brings us a Dark Side of The Moon styled guitar solo sure to impress.

“Bird of Passage” recalls Alan Parsons and Genesis in spots, and an awesome electronic clavichord meeting a Spanish guitar is featured in “White Cherry Hill.” Being a pop-prog album it does have a tendency to meander in long elaborate passages well over 4 minutes on several songs. But that’s okay, 21st Century Junk is one great headphones album that deserves attention. Don’t miss it.

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