Kings of Convenience are a folk duo hailing from Norway. On paper this sounds like a worrying concept and, with ears more attuned to indie rock ‘n’ roll, it was with some trepidation that I approached this album!
It just goes to show though that you should never judge a band by their press release or a cd by its cover, (three earnest twenty-somethings engaged in a game of chess) as, in "Riot on an Empty Street", Kings of Convenience have produced an album of haunting melodies – the perfect soundtrack for a sunny day.
From the first track, the melancholic "Homesick", to the simply enchanting "Love is No Big Truth", hushed and fragile vocals are accompanied by soulful guitar strummings. If I’m honest this is the formula for the whole album, as one sweetly poetic melody blends easily and invisibly into the next. There are no particularly catchy or outstanding tunes – none that leap out as an obvious radio favourite - but this does not seem to be the point. Kings of Convenience have created an album of mood music for a new generation. Think Turin Breaks without the self-consciousness or Belle and Sebastian without the knowing cleverness. Beautiful Bjork-style guest vocals from Leslie Feist are an unexpected delight and elevate the sometimes-sombre mood.
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At its worst, Riot on an Empty Street is pleasant and tuneful, but at its best it’s positively captivating. For days when it’s too hot to rock ‘n’ roll, and if an Ibiza chill-out album leaves you cold, consider Kings of Convenience as the alternative soundtrack to your Summer.
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