Jay-Jay Johanson, Opium

By Kendra Sells
Music Reviewer

Artist: Jay-Jay Johanson
Album: Opium
Lable:Kwaidan Records
Release Date: September
Website: http://jayjayjohanson.tumblr.com/

Swedish singer songwriter Jay-Jay Johanson says he works to master a sound that leaves a mark on its listener, a sound that is addictive. Not only did he manage to do this with his new album Opium, but he too has won me over as an excited new fan. I cannot stop listening to him. Opium features a collection of lingering timbres such has harmonicas and tasteful vocal reverb. Johanson’s trip-hop stylings with minimal, yet impactful droning guitars gather to create intense relaxation and a euphoric chill. Track 1, “Drowsy/Too Young To Say Goodnight” follows his addictive theme when he sings “I know we should be sleeping, but we’re much too young to say goodnight” the song speaks of a lingering love, one so strong that it feels bad for you, much like opium. Other highlighted tracks would be “Moonshine” and “NDE”. Opium is the anthem of a man just trying to figure himself out. It is art painted in front of your eyes, ever so slowly and absolutely elegant.

Robin Guthrie from the swedish band Cocteau Twins hopped on both “Be Yourself” and “NDE.” Johanson has done previous work with The Knife and Timmy Timid who did a remix of “Moonshine.” Sweden is thriving musically. Other great Swedish artists such as Little Dragon and Lykke Li bring a unique charm to the game, much like Johanson. For the years that I have slept on his music, it is definitely time to wake up. Opium is progressive. While there is an obvious electric touch, Johanson pays tribute to minimal acoustic values which successfully creates a sound that anyone can appreciate, respect, and ultimately love. Opium has not officially been released yet in the US, but it can be streamed on Spotify.

Enjoy “Moonshine!” https://youtu.be/6PAnUvhuUJU