In 2002, Ronderlin’s debut album, Wave Another Day Goodbye was released by Labrador in Sweden and Hidden Agenda in the US. The guitar determined pop, with a melodic Nick Drake:ish melancholy, was given a warm reception. Over the last five years, the band’s focus has been the experimental drive as well as the desire to make discoveries. The newly found electronic features light up the finely tuned foundation as fireworks light up the night sky. Working closely with producer Charles Storm, they have created a handsome electronic touch that sometimes reminds of Pet Shop Boys and New Order. On the other hand, a multitude of various inspirational sources may be found in Ronderlin’s music; Camel, Indochine, Wilco and Fleetwood Mac to mention a few.
“The Great Investigation” moves from the explosive “What’s The Time” and “Way To Be” to naked ballads as “Hands And Feet”. Ronderlin greets the listener instead of the other way around – more extrovert than before but without any trace of kissing ass. The steady drumbeats keep the songs in a tight grip, guitar and bass race to the finish-line and the sounds from the keyboard wrap around the beautiful melodies like clouds. The last song, “The Sound Of The Ice When It Cracks”, ends with a sound cacophony that spins like a whirlwind behind the mad trumpets and the sacred organ. The intense sound aside, it is obvious that the melodies are essential parts of Ronderlin’s music.
The multifaceted sound is created by a multifaceted band. Since the first album, the band has spent time in musical escapades in pretty different directions. While Kalle has found inspiration in the Far East, Johan toured the world with energetic Love is All. Per played the trumpet and organ in 60:s soul/pop inspired Irene and also in different pop and experimental acts like Maison Blanche and Nude Fox Ensemble. Mats extended his folk influences in Mildendo and in bluegrass projects. Despite the eager escapades and investigations, it’s clear that the band members, their musical luggage respectively, belong to Ronderlin – and it shows in the music they create together.| |
