Music Review: First Aid Kit – The Lion’s Roar
You may recognize Johanna and Klara Söderberg from their homemade videos on YouTube, especially their cover of Fleet Foxes’ “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song.” This folk-country sister duo is called First Aid Kit. They started writing music in 2007, and soon after began making videos of themselves playing songs in the Swedish forests near where they grew up. These old souls did not remain YouTube sensations for long – they have since performed alongside Fleet Foxes, Lykke Li, and have caught the attention of Jack White and Conor Oberst.
Their second full-length album, called The Lion’s Roar, came out in January, went straight to #1 in its first week of release and still topping the Swedish Albums Chart. This record has a depth and polish to it that can be largely attributed to its producer, Mike Mogis (Bright Eyes, M. Ward). It is filled with rich instrumentation that provides the perfect backdrop for the sisters’ dramatic vocal harmonies. Despite their young ages, 22 and 19, Johanna and Klara sing as if they have lived long, hard lives filled with tragedy and strife. There is, on the other hand, a certain ethereal charm in their sound, perhaps inspired by childhood memories of their native country and the magic of Swedish folklore. Their music has a poetic, storytelling quality that pulls you into another time and place, evoking emotions of both joy and sorrow. With a slight Southern twang the girls sing haunting tales about heartbreak and long winter nights in Stockholm. Their lyrics even include references to their most prominent American influences, including Johnny Cash, June Carter, Emmylou Harris, and Joni Mitchell. It’s obvious these sisters have a deep respect for the musicians who shaped their style from a young age.
From singing to a camera in the woods to co-writing songs with indie rock legends, First Aid Kit have come a long way in the past few years. This talented pair is already being compared to Joanna Newsom, and I’m sure they will continue to gain confidence and direction as they tour to promote The Lion’s Roar this spring and summer. As young as they are, Johanna and Klara Söderberg have much to say to the world, and I sincerely hope people are willing to listen.
Kristin Wall
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