Norwegian alt-folkies Katzenjammer may have gained some attention with their distinctive versions of Genesis’ “Land of Confusion” and Nick Cave’s “Henry Lee”, as well as the multi-instrument approach on their previous albums, Le Pop and A Kiss Before You Go. It would seem, however, that new album Rockland is where they have finally found their own groove. That’s not to say that Rockland isn’t without its influences. It’s just that they are melded together into something that they can call their own.
Lead single “Lady Grey” has the commercial nous to bring some radio play and draws from the same well as fellow Scandinavians First Aid Kit, while the poppy and up-tempo “Shine Like Neon Rays” could similarly gain significant attention. It is, however, “Curvaceous Needs” – a banjo-heavy song which takes aim at skinny, size zero boyfriend-stealing waifs – that stands out. Sung by Marianne Sveen, it whoops up a storm with an injection of rockabilly mania that would liven up any barn dance.
Rockland isn’t all up-tempo fare though. The album is book-ended by a couple of sweet, mellow tunes. The opening track, “Old De Spain” throws in a heavy dose of bluegrass and brings to mind 70s blues-folkie Karen Dalton. While title track and album closer, “Rockland” pushes acoustic guitars to the fore before bringing proceedings to a close.
There are points where it is clear that Katzenjammer really aren’t from south of the Mason-Dixie Line and that they certainly aren’t singing in their first language. This is especially noticeable on the likes of “Flask in the Pan”. However, the band easily manage to avoid sounding clunky and this just adds to their appeal. It is to be hoped that Katzenjammer are booked to play some festivals this summer though, because on this evidence, it’s an arena where they could really shine.
