- In
2002 Faris Nourallah took the break-up of the Nourallah Brothers as an
opportunity to release his first solo record I Love Faris. Critics
from magazines such as Mojo found the record to be “warm touching, and
once heard near impossible to live without.”
Less than a year later he had released his sophomore solo record Probematico. Again critics and fans were pleased drawing comparisons to
Ray Davies, Eric Mathews, and Plush. Despite
the success he had with the first two records, Faris knew he had a better
record in him. That record was King
of Sweden.
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- On King
of Sweden the production is tighter, the sequencing is perfectly paced,
and we find Faris using his voice as an instrument more than ever.
Additionally, this is his most varied album to date, emotionally,
melodically, and sonically. The
songs are intensely vibrant and creative.
You can practically hear Faris capturing the spontaneity, energy, and
spirit of the moment with each song.
- --
- Most
listeners would be surprised to hear that the album was written, played, and
recorded entirely by Faris alone. Faris
takes this approach, willfully capitalizing on his studio’s limitations,
while exploring his unlimited creativity.
Recording alone at home on a16-track recorder, he has developed and
honed his unique sound.
- --
- Similar
to Catcher in the Rye, King
of Sweden paints a picture of a young man disillusioned with life,
disgusted by phonies, and struggling with a conflicted relationship with the
world around him. Despite the
Holden Caulfield point of view, songs like “I’m Falling,” with its
80’s drum machine beats and synthesizers, could become a European dance
hit. Alternately, stripped down
songs like “Tattoo Your Woman” easily finds a place in your heart, with
it’s sincere delivery and dramatic melody.
In the end, King of Sweden proves that Faris Nourallah is an incredibly unique
and gifted songwriter. We think
he’s crafted a near perfect pop record with King
of Sweden. We hope you
enjoy it.
