Words: Andrea Naess

Norwegian up-and-coming indie rock intellects Svalestup share their 4^th studio album Ut av det Blå [that’s “out of the blue” for our non-Nordic speakers]. And, as the name suggests, the record hit us in the feels right out of the blue, as Andrea Naess reports.

Reminiscent of Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes and Vampire Weekend, the Norwegian stars have managed to create their own unique melody, with a hint of healthy antagonism to complete the true experience. 

Opener ‘Kledelig Bedugga’, features a story about a couple that speaks about their feelings, only when under the influence. It sounds honest and raw, and I can’t help but stamp my foot up and down fast to the upbeat tempo. The catchy guitar riff makes you forget about the serious undertone of the song. Drifty, dreamy and a feeling of being out of line. 

Other standouts are ‘Fingran Klør’, a fast-paced and eager song about chasing your dreams and never looking back. The drummer Sverre Groennvold Boe is transcending, and it’s one of the catchiest tunes so far on this album. There are slower parts as well though like ‘Seine Kvelda’ featuring an early Tame Impala-inspired guitar that really carries the song. It’s dreamy, like a distant memory you want to revisit. This band really has the potential to be the next Arctic Monkeys and this song is proof of that. Other slower standouts include ‘Ta på vei’, more melancholic but there’s something beautiful and simple about it.

All in all, Ut av det Blå is a worthwhile listen and a top pick for any indie lover. Also, not a bad excuse to learn Norwegian!

Highlights: Kledelig Bedugga, Ut av det blå, Lånte Fjær

Ut av det Blå is out now wherever you listen to your music.