Miike Snow

"Black Tin Box" feat. Lykke Li
from the album Happy to You
2012
iTunes

BY CHRIS KRAEMER | Jonk Music

What could possibly add to the excitement of Miike Snow's impending second studio album? Collaborations with other well-known and adored artists might do the trick.

On the third track offered through the group's website, the trio is joined by Swedish star Lykke Li. With two-thirds of Miike Snow also hailing from Sweden, their connection is no mystery. The guest appearance fits the song nicely, as the unique and dark atmosphere Lykke Li brings to the pop world accompanies her onto the eerie "Black Tin Box." Her vocals arrive near the center of the track, and their presence is enough to allow the lone moment where the percussion is lifted. Albeit not for long, as the distant pounding returns to drive the song further into a thick, dreamlike fog.

The opening cymbal establishes the haunting mood quickly, and the five and half minute song never strays from it. There are times when an upbeat, house-inspired sound attempts to rise from the shadows of the “Black Tin Box,” but the enduring tone prevails, leaving the listener happy in outer space.

Based in their native Stockholm, Miike Snow and Lykke Li have formed their own record label along with fellow Swedes Peter Bjorn and John. As the country's music scene enjoys continued success and begins to pool together, we can only hope for more collaboration from these members of INGRID records. Maybe even another as soon as late March, when Miike Snow's Happy to You LP crosses the Atlantic to hit U.S. markets. One thing is certain, no additional leaked tracks are needed to generate hype for the super-producers' sophomoric release.