Those searching for a post-election night event to either celebrate or drown their sorrows need look no further than Tammany Hall in NYC and the NordAmerican showcase on November 7. This inaugural event (intended to turn into a monthly showcase in early 2013) will feature a variety of Nordic talent, two acts of which are already firmly based in New York. Headlining the night will be the lovely chanteuse Amalie Bruun . Many locals may already be familiar with her captivating vocals as one half of the duo Ex Cops. Amalie’s work as a solo artist has very little to share with that group’s psych sound. Her latest single Crush (released in August and streaming below) tastefully touches on bits of torch pathos and at other times country sentimentality.
Popular New York alt rockers Lion in the Mane are also scheduled to appear. Drawing on an emotional feel and sound that made waves in the mid-2000’s because of bands like Jimmy Eat World, their lyrics strike a bit deeper. EP title track “The Way We’re Wired” has an optimism running through the self-questioning and soul searching. Despite “New York City ’s soulless little lullabies” there is still a desire to “find a way for you to believe in me, the way I believe in you.” Building crescendos up to the dynamic conclusion indicates the work of experienced musicians and a conscientious attention to songwriting detail. – Dave Cromwell