Band Review :: Royksopp

Band Review :: Royksopp
Posted :: Aug 17, 2004 by kompakt

Artist :: Royksopp
Genre :: Electronica
Location :: Norway
Best Album :: Melody AM

Many Artists and DJs have tried to portray a restful evening after a hectic day with music, but none have quite been able to accomplish what Royksopp has done. They've only created a single full length album, but they have already managed to change the way relaxing electronic music is created. Melody AM contains some of the most unique songs that you will ever hear. The band members of Royksopp, Torbjorn Brundtland and Svein Berge definitely knew what they were doing when they walked into the studio to craft this masterpiece.

This album is filled with new age music blended with the melodies of old film music along with some 70's and 80's beats, some vocals, and even instruments such as the saxophone make an appearance in songs such as "She's So" and "So Easy". The old melodies and new beats fit together shockingly well and the structure of each song is so complex that if one component was missing from each song, the album would no longer have that Relaxing-Night-After-Hectic-Day vibe that recurs throughout the album. One thing that I've noticed in Royksopp's music is that it flows from one melody to another almost unnoticeably, such as in the song, "Royksopp's Night Out", which in fact does sound remarkably like what you would hear on a "night out". The second Disc on the album lives up to the quality of the first. It sticks to its genre, even when it feels like its stepping out of bounds, and the enhanced videos on the disc are well done and entertaining.

Royksopp didn't stop with just their debut album Melody AM, they have also made a double 12" LP of their singles "Poor Leno" and "Remind Me", which feature remixes by Silicone Soul and others. Royksopp has proven that anything is possible, especially when making music. They almost got beat up in school trying to think of something new and different, they parted ways in college, but they didn't give up on their dream. After a while they got together they conjured up Royksopp. If all of that hadn't happened, we wouldn't have their masterpiece album, Melody AM today.

Melody AM album cover

Album cover for Royksopps' Poor Leno Jakatta Mix Import

Royksopp creates solid music for listening to when you try to fall asleep at night, need inspiration, or are simply in the mood for some easy listening. Royksopp has accomplished what many others have tried to do, but few have managed to pull it off. Melody AM has left a mark in music history that will remain forever, and hopefully be celebrated for many years to come. Royksopp's contribution to music is greatly appreciated by listeners around the world. So thank you Royksopp, for trying something new and succeeding in your efforts.