Kings of Convenience – Declaration of Dependence
by David Tschiegg (Graphic Design), published August 4th 2010
It’s been five years since the Norwegian duo Kings of Convenience have released a new album. Since then, both have found themselves occupied with life outside of the music endeavor. Member Erlend Ãye released two excellent records with his poppy, danceable band The Whitest Boy Alive. The new Kings of Convenience album Declaration of Dependence is, if you can believe it, much quieter and comprehensive then previous albums.
The duo is well known for their flawless blending of vocals, resulting in beautifully sonorous harmonies; often to a point where it is difficult to determine between the two voices. Various comparisons have been drawn between the two and Simon and Garfunkel. The album stands as the band’s modest statement about pertinent life issues. Whether it be about mysteriously complex romantic relationships or about the insecurities of a lonely world, Kings of Convenience are able to capture the essence of these relatable issues in simple ways.
Utilizing only their two voices, percussive guitar strumming and the occasional piano and strings; Kings of Convenience are able to produce a sound that is light but oddly involved. The guitar and upright bass parts in ‘Mrs. Cold’ also call upon the duo’s capabilities of producing a minimalist dance track. As the two parts repeat throughout the song in a percussive manner; vocals, viola and a steel guitar help solidify a track that lures listeners to move to the beat. The band uses these techniques to create similar racks on the album such as ‘Boat Behind’ and ‘Rule My World’. The excellent writing in Declaration of Dependence greatly aids to the album’s purpose. It is simply about what it is titled, a decree from the band that maybe one is better off with another. Through allegories of a single boat stuck on the vast seas or through the revealing of the need to be understood unconditional; Kings of Convenience make it clear, in quite a reserved manor, that being alone is not an option.
Recommended Tracks: Mrs. Cold, Rule My World and Second to Numb
Rating: 3.9/5
Tracklist
About Kings of Convenience
Kings of Convenience are a music duo formed in Bergen, Norway, playing a style that features acoustic instrumental playing and their two voices. The band consists of Erlend Øye and Eirik Glambek Bøe. They met as children at a geography competition. They are known for their delicate tunes, calming voices, and intricately subtle guitar melodies. After first earning notice thanks to a series of acclaimed European festival appearances during the summer of 1999, the twosome signed to American label Kindercore to issue their lovely eponymous debut the following spring.