Amandine This Is Where Our Hearts Collide

Amandine used to be called Wichita Linemen, a name which perhaps better conjures up the traditional American Folk sound they produce. With a line-up consisting of Olof Gidlöf (voice), John Andersson (piano/accordian), and two new members, Bosse Hedström (bass) and Andreas Bergquvist (percussion), the band showcase on Hearts a simple, melodic and lyrical approach to composition that leads to a coherent collection of affecting and well-constructed tunes.

At the heart of Amandine's ethos is simplicity - honest, sincere lyrics, elegant melodies, and uncomplicated arrangements, taking in the staples of folk and country - a well versed four-piece, confidently delivered vocals, pianos and an occasional female voice floating in the background. There are influences from the classics, including elements from The Band and Crosby Still & Nash, along with other, modern folk artists, including Candidate, and touches of the alt. country/Americana scene - think of Damien Jurado or even Calexico. But they're also a band with a strong identity, based around solid, intelligent song writing and unfussy yet powerful delivery of their material. Admittedly there are some smatterings of AOR here, and it is unlikely that music will change indefinitely upon the diffusion of this record, but there is little to fault musically.

Warm, emotive and wistful, with a quiet power surging underneath, This Is Where Our Hearts Collide is a mature and accomplished debut that promises, perhaps, future brilliance.