Elin Ruth may borrow from days gone bye but it all sounds fresh and welcoming.
Ask any Arsenal fan about the impact a previously unrated Swede can make in around half an hour and you'll quickly realise they're not a bunch of people to be taken for granted. Leaving aside the heroics of Mr. Larsson, the latest Swedish export is Elin Ruth and her self titled debut UK release showcases a modest talent who can easily hold her own in the ever growing pool of singer-songwriters.
For a person who has been openly wary, and at times critical, of the current singer-songwriters, it's a pleasant concern at how quickly the melodies and warmth of Elin Ruth comes to the fore. Second track 'Paper Cup Words' has a fragile beauty to it that is strongly reminiscent of Joni Mitchell's 'Blue' and there seems a genuine emotional attachment that artists like Blunt or Melua would never achieve.
Rather than sounding like her contempories, there is more the essence of Carly Simon or Linda Ronstadt on these tracks that shines through and cloaks the listener like a warm jumper. The harmonica wails and the tinkly piano fills, create a sound that is, if not quite timeless, certainly more worldly than being stuck in this millennium.
Don't be mistaken into thinking that the album is a singular paced acoustic effort, 'Song For Anna' features some psychedelic guitars, tasteful strings and phased drumming that transport the listener back to a 1960's summer. The song is also a rather touching tribute to a loved one and is just genuinely uplifting and likely to put a smile on your face. The quick pace of the lyrics that seem to be catching Elins breath flow openly and the lyrics don't give away much but there is an honesty that sparkles throughout.
Another twist is provided by 'Claudia' which evokes Nick Drakes 'Time Has Told Me', one of Drakes more cheery and upbeat numbers. Ruth covers many bases and there are many influences on this record but never seems in awe of them, merely paying her quiet tribute to the acts she has learned from.
There will be critics who will point to a sound that's all been heard before, a pace that is largely laid-back and calm and even a vocal range that once it establishes its warmth and range doesn't extend itself much further. These are all valid arguments but would be missing the point in that Elin Ruth has created a really strong and consistent record that plays to her strengths and contains many fine tales and melodies.
And the bonus track is a stomping little rock song that sounds so wonderfully at odds with the over songs, that it couldn't exist anywhere else on this record apart from as a bonus song. Its also a song that would put Snow Patrol at number one for a few weeks.