The comedian Daniel Kitson recently described his favourite sort of music as that "which is designed to be listened to on a Walkman, while walking in the rain, feeling melancholy, but slightly hopeful". Which beautifully describes the Shout Out Louds, funnily enough.
Like their fellow Swedes, The Cardigans, The Concretes and The Wannadies, The Shout Out Louds are experts at big, melodic pop music which brightens up your life yet also subtly tugs on your heartstrings. Lead singer Adam Olenius croaks out lyrics like a man who's recently had his heart bruised and battered, over a mix of strong guitar chords and keyboards apparently inspired by The Cars. Like their last single, Very Loud, it's insanely catchy and very sweet while remaining on the right side of twee.
They've recently toured with The Magic Numbers, and if you like Romeo Stodart's winning way with a melody you'll find much to love here. Memo to Mr Kitson: there's a new band suitable for your trips with your Walkman.
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