B-Sidor 95-00
by Antti J. Ravelin
Kent's singles from four previous albums (Kent, Verkligen, Isola, Hagnesta Hill) have left behind a pile of B-sides that are, in Kent's own words, an experimental lab where they have always tried to create something new. And that is exactly what B-Sidor 95-00 is about. B-Sidor is surely a shock if you don't know what it is about. Joakim Berg's great lyrics, Kent's unbelievable dynamics, and the melancholic mood are not the first in line on this collection, vice versa, actually; this Swedish group has totally concentrated on musical tricks. And what does this album sound like? The only decent word for this album is "diversive." This is understandable because this album was made in five years at different studio sessions. The only song near Kent's traditional style is the excellent "Bas Riff," which, by the way, very much resembles Smashing Pumpkins' electronic "Ava Adore." Despite this, B-Sidor is a good album. If you're still interested, try Isola or Hagnesta Hill first.