Quick, Before It Melts.

God bless Sweden. There must be something growing in those dense forests, which increases the Swede's musical ability to superhuman levels. Lately, my stereo seems to be populated with Swede-pop, from Peter Bjorn and John’s chic grooves to the Knife’s groovy chick-chicks. Now I can add fellow countrymen (man, actually) Loney, Dear to the playlist. Emil Svanängen has been recording and releasing albums as Loney, Dear these last four years out of his parents’ house (not only a one-man band, but a one-man promotional machine, too).

From those humble beginnings, Svanängen has now signed to Sub Pop, who has just released his latest, Loney, Noir. Listening to it feels like you’re standing outside his bedroom door, eavesdropping on Svanängen’s private recording sessions. “I Am John,” a Belle & Sebastian-like gem is a great example of his fine pop craftsmanship.

Loney Dear, “I Am John”

Loney, Dear online: official | Myspace | mp3s | buy Loney, Noir