by BrooklynVegan Mike

DOWNLOAD: Envelopes - Party (MP3)

Last time out, we spoke with Deep Sleepover in Montreal. This time, we go to Europe. Envelopes is an international affair, with members splitting time between France and Sweden. The dual vocals of Audrey Pic and Henrik Orrling, along with guitarist Fredrik Berglind-Dehlin, were initially the core trio of the group but they have since added Martin Karlsson and Filip Ekander as a rhythm section.

Their debut record, Demon (Swedish for "demo"), was the first release for Brille Records, the UK indie label also home to Good Shoes, Whirlwind Heat and The Knife. Envelopes' music embraces and distills the idiomatic qualities of bands like The B-52's, Stereolab, and Talking Heads and interweaves them with intricate melodies and a pulsing electronic presence. Just don't call them quirky.

Listen to the Pixies-esque bass drop-in on Party followed a minute later by appropriated Bonnie Tyler lyrics. Their music is a frantic pastiche with a not-so-obvious wink. And it's incredibly addictive. We spoke with Henrik Orrling while on tour to discuss the formation of the band, their name, and LEGO's.

Interview with Henrik Orrling of Envelopes below...

Continue reading "a spotlight on (and interview with) Envelopes"