Jens Lekman, Sun Hill @Troubadour, 16/05/05

Tue 17th May, 2005 in Gig Reviews

The Bill, although undeniably daggy, has a vast legion of fans; many of whom you would never suspect. And judging by the name of self-proclaimed indie Casio-pop duo Sun Hill, they are such fans. The local lad and lass performed some lovely synth-pop folk ditties about girls called Lucy who live in the library and other such scenarios. They were also ably assisted throughout their set by the so-called Happy Hands Club, who essentially were human percussionists.

Although it was a Monday night, and Jens Lekman is a relatively unknown name, there was an unexpectedly large crowd gathered to hear his charming tragi-comic love songs. Early bird audience members eased into the couches lining the walls, while latecomers had to gingerly step though those who had gathered on the carpet and attempt to search for a place for themselves to perch.

The Troubadour was created for evenings just like the one unfolding tonight. Bedecked with a fluffed red koala sweater and grandpa golf cap, the hush that descended over the crowd was tangible. One man and his ukulele with only one release available readily in Australia, When I Said I Wanted To Be Your Dog, had the people mesmerised.

Though his rich, warm, milk and honey baritone that has been likened to that of Stephen Merritt  from Magnetic Fields and his lyrical content to current touring partner Darren Hanlon; really his style is uniquely his own. His is a storyteller in every sense of the word, and an entertainer. It is hard to imagine any other artist eliciting the same constant smiles and laughter as Lekman when regaling us about cutting off the tip of his index finger all in the context of a love song!   

Another unlikely circumstance to situate a love song is during a riot. A few years ago George W Bush visited Lekman’s hometown of Göteborg (Gothenburg), which generated large protests on the streets. The fact that being catch up in such a dramatic event and finding yourself distant from, rather than closer to your girlfriend inspired him to pen the gloriously titled To Hell with George Bush for Screwing Up my Love Life. 

However, a definite highlight was a more sombre moment where he sang “the saddest song ever”; a beautiful Swedish lullaby in his native tongue. A number of Swedes came out of the woodwork to sing along, but that did not detract from his gorgeous voice. For the benefit of the remainder of the audience he sang a rough translation which helped us understand why he considers this tune to be so melancholy.

He also invoked audience participation for bells and percussion, citing the expense which prevented him from bringing his band along from home. He performed a few songs acoustically; even wandering into the middle of the crowd to make sure those all the way down the back could still hear the music.

Tack så mycket Jens, for such a wonderful evening.