Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s featured selection, chosen by Afternoon Show host Kevin Cole, is I Give You Two Seconds to Entertain Me
by Northern Portrait from the 2008 EP Napoleon Sweetheart on Matinee Recordings.
A little over a year ago Copenhagen’s Northern Portrait solidified under the direction of singer/songwriter Stefan Larsen and drummer Michael Sorensen, both longtime friends and bandmates. Shortly after adding friend and guitarist Rune Reholt, the trio was courted heavily by several labels, eventually settling in with the very appropriate Matinee Recordings. Larsen often classifies the band’s sound as sophisticated guitar pop.
In reality, it is that and so much more. Most tracks on their two EPs fall in the slow- to mid-tempo range, buoyed by dramatic yet simple guitar melodies and Larsen’s heart wrenching vocals. It’s those vocals that have attracted the most attention thus far, consisting of a delivery akin to Morrissey and sounding like a cross between Moz and Chris Isaak. But this is a complete band and all three members are well studied in the art of ’80s Britpop, more so than any group to come along in some time. Having just released their 2nd EP, the band is already well on their way to releasing a full-length album and hopefully departing on a world tour. Live chemistry is reportedly outstanding, but the band is yet to find the extra stage musicians to fit the bill. Stay tuned to their MySpace page for news of said tour and album.
