I’m not sure which blog first pointed me in the direction of Lykke Li, but whoever it was I’d like to thank them.

You may not be sure exactly how to pronounce her name, but don’t worry. That won’t stop you from enjoying her music - trust me, I speak from experience. Stockholm, Sweden native Lykke Li is poised to break out with her debut album Youth Novels which will be released in the U.S. on March 8th.

Now I could describe Lykke Li as an old soul in a young body, as a Bohemian gypsy with porcelain skin, or as possessed by an otherworldly creature (if only when she dances), but I think it would be best if you just saw for yourself. However, looks are only part of the package when it comes to Lykke Li. I wouldn’t be talking about her if she didn’t have an amazing voice, or if she didn’t make amazing music.

Listen to the songs where you can, and watch the videos when you’re able, and you’ll see the old soul I mentioned flowing through Lykke Li.

Dance, Dance, Dance

Listen to this song’s smooth island vibe and it’s hard to believe that an artist from Sweden is behind it. And does anyone else pick up the subtle channeling of Nina Simone?

I’m Good I’m Gone

As well as a good song, this video is one of the coolest/strangest I’ve ever seen. Teaming up with some pals, Lykke Li inadvertently creates a Swedish supergroup easily capable of taking over the world if they so desire. (Bebban and Adam from the Shout Out Louds, Daniel from The Concretes, Lars from Laasko, Mikael from Hjalmar and Robyn)

Things to watch/listen for in this video:

1. Lykke Li clearing her throat (00:28)
2. The atrocious sounding megaphoning by Lykke Li (the studio version has a robot doing that part)
3. Lykke Li’s voice soaring out from off camera (01:00)
4. The moment Lykke Li gets her trademark groove on. Standing so still up to this point was obviously causing her a great deal of discomfort.
5. Bebban from the Shout Out Louds doing nothing but sitting down and looking pretty in the back.
6. Lykke Li receding back into the darkness from whence she came

Remember the Date!

March 8th is when Youth Novels comes out (and if you’re in Europe it came out last month!) so be sure to run out and show some support for your new favourite Swedish debutante!

Check out more artist profiles from Listen In here.

© Jacob Nicolas Martinez 2008 for Listen In. Some rights reserved.

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