Coming from the boiling scene of Bergen, Great News is comprised of Even Kjelby, Kim Åge Furuhaug, and Ole Kristian Einarsen. On their album “Wonderfault” which is named after the idea of “the imperfect being something wonderful,” the trio multiplies the references and genres. From shoegaze, garage spirit to alt-pop and synth-pop, they successfully channel bands like MGMT, Fleetwood Mac or even AC/DC while bringing a modern and recognizable Scandinavian touch. It’s not easy to stand out in a such saturated genre but Great News are definitely making a well-deserved place on their own.

On their new single “You’re Mine”, they serve us some 80s synth realness but avoid falling into the trap of kitsch-ness. The track stands out thanks to a psychedelic and technicolor production and, of course, it is also loaded with irresistible melodic lines.

Great News‘ new album “Wonderfault is now out via Eget Selskap.

Follow Great News on Facebook, and Spotify.

With a majestuous production and amazing vocals, The Other End‘s debut track “Far From Home” could be described as the Scandinavian answer to London Grammar or Julien Baker. It’s a classy, timeless, and powerful time stopper ballad that makes you float in the air. We couldn’t resist making an interview with the band (Ida Knoph-Solholm and Alexander Breidvik) to know more about them, this single, and their upcoming projects.

HighClouds: Could you introduce yourself to our readers as they don’t know you yet?

The Other End is a duo from Bergen, Norway, and we define our music as indie/slowcore. We take turns playing guitar, bass, piano and a homemade suitcase drum. The two of us have known each other for several years, and we started exchanging musical ideas back in 2015, but it wasn’t until late 2016 we decided to really go all in with the band. During 2017, The Other End played at the most important venues in Bergen, and this includes playing at (Norwegian broadcaster) TV 2s 25th year celebration, and a concert for the inmates at Bergen prison.

What is the meaning behind your track “The Other End” and why did you actually choose this one as a debut?

Our first single, “Far from Home”, is a song about almost losing a loved one, without being able to do anything about it. It was written over the course of a year, and is based on a true story. The song centres solely around Ida‘s voice together with a clean and slightly echoing guitar, and develops using few instruments throughout the song. One could describe the song as ethereal, and the basis of the song was recorded live in studio with just guitar and vocals. It’s presented in a naked and honest way, and might resemble artists such as Julien Baker and Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy.

Can you tell us a bit more about your debut EP? What was your creative process and what can we expect from it?