Last weekend saw Norwegian singer-songwriter Simen Mitlid release his third album, the intricately titled, Birds; or, Stories from Charlie B’s Travels From Grønland to the Sun, and Back Again via Koke Plate.
We have shared a handful of its lead singles and today are here to highlight the opening track “Last of Us” and fellow standout “Smoke.”
“Last of Us” is a graceful opening that casts a bit of a classical spell, a tender and smart opening that sets the table and lays out some delicate folk arrangements that get things started in a most thoughtful manner. Strings are perfectly placed and compliment every word.
“Smoke” has a more traditional folk rock sound, one that casts a sad melancholic cloud that feels like a mix between Elliot Smith mood and the delivery of early Sufjan Stevens.
Mitlid has been an underrated force in the folk genre overseas and if there’s any justice, this new album should net him an even bigger audience over here in the states.
Find both songs available to stream below and you can preview and purchase the album from his Bandcamp.
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