It’s absolutely thrilling that Kings of Convenience is finally back on the radar with their first new album in 12 years, Peace or Love. It’s considerably more cheerful and warm than their previous offerings, and while their signature sound is much the same, the content and general emotion behind their music shows their growth and maturity over the last few years, both as a band and as individuals.
I’ve been a big fan of Kings of Convenience for a long time, and “Rocky Trail” is a prime example of the many reasons why. The lilting, acoustic guitar melodies and the gentle, layered, harmonic vocals create an easy-listening, bossa-nova inspired track that begs multiple replays.
It’s pared down and simple, the focus entirely on the music and the feel it inspires, rather than the typical verse-chorus-verse blueprint. This is encapsulated oh-so-sweetly in the music video, in which the band plays their acoustic instruments while wandering around a quirky, lovingly decorated, Scandinavian loft apartment, making breakfast while juggling avocados, watering plants, playing chess, dancing, and hanging out on the couch. It’s heartwarming and colorful — the arpeggios filled with texture and fun.
As the band’s first full-length release since 2009’s Declaration of Dependence, we’ve got a lot to look forward to if the first single is anything to go by.
The new album is out June 18 via EMI.
SIMILAR SONGS
