Mr. Little Jeans Has a Big Sound [stream]

Monica Birkenes, better known as Mr. Little Jeans, is a radio-ready, pop-savvy angel disguised as a still up-and-coming gem. The common comparisons to Lana Del Ray are unmistakable, and all of that lush and breathy beauty works perfectly on Birkenes’ new track “Oh Sailor”. The verse begins as a delicate, synth driven atmosphere with the vocals front and center. Then, the combination of subtle electronic elements and steady kick drum allow the track to suddenly break open and reveal a deliciously ecstatic chorus. Harmonies, swooping bass synth, children’s voices and a plinky, high-pitched keyboard burst like fireworks and then poignantly fade out into the second verse. Perhaps most impressive is that Birkenes can craft a catchy and elated chorus, while keeping the verses mysterious and sparse.

Her clear musical vision is not only evident on this fantastic track, but also on her even better reworking of Arcade Fire’s “The Suburbs”. Acoustic guitars and piano are swapped out for dark bass synths and high-pitched, flanging leads. Her voice flutters over a pulsing electronic drumbeat as synths phase in and out, moving the song along with the fluidity of maple syrup. Birkenes successfully melds the genius of Arcade Fire with her own musical inhibitions into a swelling, nightmarish version of a fantastic song.