Swedish duo POOLS’ debut record is a collection of affecting, haunting lullabies. The band is the collective vision of multi-instrumentalist Fredrik Forell and singer Arvid Hällagård. Reminiscent of bands like The National and The Tallest Man On Earth, the pair combine Americana, Folk and even Gospel to create something unique.
There are echoes of the pair’s previous life as electro-pop outfit WYRES, with elements of electronic noise and creative production adding twists and turns to the recordings.
Arvid was going through a divorce as the theme of the album took shape. This theme of loss and rumination is evident on the upcoming single ‘Walk’.
He explains the track is “a reflection of the emotions I’ve gone through and how I’m trying to move on. All the ache described in pictures and a cry for help. How you sometimes need something higher to hold your hand when it feels like your life is over.”
There has been some incredible music released this year, despite the challenges this year has brought to artists. It’s something I know I’m not alone in noticing and has been mentioned by other members of the Folk Radio UK team. If anything, it has been an exceptional year for music and POOLS are living proof of that. Their new single Walk encapsulates the very essence of creativity and I find it genuinely exciting to share music like this on Folk Radio…long may that continue.
POOLS is a departure from another life in more ways than one for Arvid, also of successful stoner rock band Greenleaf, the arrangements might be a little more delicate, but the artistic intensity remains the same.
‘Walk’ will be available to stream November 20th.
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