Game Changing
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The Finland duo Tuomo and Markus return with a sophomore album, where their unique brand of Nordic Americana and indie-folk touches on jazz and prog-rock across these careful 11 songs.
The title track opens the listen with twinkling keys, where much beauty enters alongside the gentle singing of the calm climate, and “Wishful Information” follows with waves of dreaminess that float above delicate melodies that places more emphasis on drumming.
Entering the middle, “Let This Season Go” find an intimate place to reside with its soft winds and stirring strings, while “Galway” showcases intricate acoustic guitar amid the poetic singing of the atmospheric album highlight.
“We’re Not Buying It” arrives near the end and offers a brighter demeanor that flirts with funk and soul, and “Hearing Voices” exits the listen with moody keys and cryptic singing populating the sci-fi friendly finish.
A listen that might remind you of Simon & Garfunkel or Crosby, Stills & Nash, the pair touch on themes of climate change, war and the global pandemic, and this 2nd record expands on their formula into very diverse and exciting avenues.
Travels well with: La Faute- Blue Girl Nice Day; Astral Swans- Astral Swans