Loney Dear - Dear John Single Review

Review of Loney Dear's single 'Dear John'.

Fans of the likes of Peter Bjorn and John and The Postal Service might find much comfort in the 2nd studio album from Swedish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Emil Svanängen (aka Loney, Dear).

Released on Polyvinyl, Dear John is an ambitious electro-indie-pop record with a massive helping of live instrumentation. Featuring a mixture of live/electronic drums, shuffling percussion, twinkling synth arrangements, gentle orchestration, guitar and vocals submersed in sweet and melancholic goodness, this colourful album has many redeeming qualities. From the gorgeous wailing harmonies in 'Harsh Words', to the choral swells of 'Distant Lights', or the wonderful marching orchestral qualities of the self-titled closer there is much to enjoy.

Those looking for Scandinavian value can rest safely assured, Emil Svanängen has created a vibrant and truly consistent pop album that is sure to bring a legion of new fans. Excellent.

Colin Burrill