SHAZAM

Studio, a Swedish duo comprised of Dan Lissvik and Rasmus Hägg, created an underground stir with their debut full-length, Yearbook 1 (2007). Released regionally in Scandinavia on the independent label Information, Yearbook 1 became an Internet sensation, circulating widely on file-sharing networks and getting favorable blog write-ups. Bearing influences of electronica, experimental rock, Afro-pop, and Krautrock, the duo's music is partly reminiscent of early-'80s Cure and New Order, particularly in terms of rhythm; however, with songs such as "Out There," which clocks in at 16 minutes, and with few vocals, let alone traditional song arrangements, comparisons to contemporary indie dance-rock acts such as Fujiya & Miyagi and LCD Soundsystem are more fitting. A condensed six-track version of Yearbook 1, titled West Coast (2007) and given new artwork, was released internationally as the original went out of print. Moreover, Studio released a series of vinyl singles (on both 12" and 7") on Information and engaged in remix work for others. ~ Jason Birchmeier, Rovi