Released: 8 Nov 2019
Label: Futureman Records
Listen on Bandcamp
Swedish band - The Tor Guides are a new discovery for me. There have been a lot of great melodic power pop albums this year and this one is also definitely well worth investigating.
The strongest song on the album is the sublime opener - 'To Be'. Its harmonies are so perfect, you will be hooked straight away just as I was. There are hints of The Beach Boys and also Nick Lowe's song - Cruel To Be Kind. Its such a well-written song, it would sit well alongside anything by those two artists.
Other highlights include 'My Wits About Me' which has wonderful melodies and catchy hooks. 'Just A Smile' is a cover of the 70's classic by Pilot. It is a beautiful version and it fits in with the album perfectly.
'My Midas Touch' is a slow ballad and there are quite a few on here but this just adds to the laid-back listening experience. Piano ballad 'Writers Block' is about the frustrations of every day life, and not feeling like you are getting anywhere with your art. It is something many could relate to, including myself.
'My Hippie Mess' adds some more fun to the album and is gloriously chaotic.
On the whole, this is a very strong melodic pop album. The first song 'To Be' is especially brilliant and I have been playing it on repeat. Well worth checking out.
