Kings of Convenience
Declaration of Dependence - astralwerks
FILTER Grade: 86%

Despite Kings of Convenience’s claims that this album speaks of “serious ideas,” contains “hi-brow Bossa Nova,” and that it’s “the most rhythmical pop record ever that features no percussion or drums,” they’re not completely delusional. As always, the duo otherwise known as Erlend Øye and Eirik Bøe makes endearing, glossy pop music that manages to be nihilistic and creepy at the same time. But don’t be fooled, there’s not much else going on. It’s just a series of strangely gorgeous, breezy tunes from two awkward Norwegians who continue to remind us that love can be confusing, joy dark and pain very beautiful.