Notes
Einar Stokka is one of the exciting new artists from Norway. The EP 'King of Hearts' is his debut release, and came out 31th of August 2009. The EP was recorded in January 2009 in Spacekraft Studio in Bergen, Norway, and is released on the artist's own label Campground Recordings. As a musician and songwriter, Einar Stokka has already established himself in Bergen's indie-folk scene. The rich music scene of Bergen has once more produced an artist with a talent for writing pop melodies. His distinct sound comes from a wide range of influences - Neil Young, Wilco, Jayhawks, Fleet Foxes, Grant lee Buffalo and The Byrds, to name a few. Stokka has mostly toured in Scandinavia, but during summer 09 Stokka carried through is first US tour. The EP has beautiful artwork, made by graphic designers from Luftmench. The cover is made of carton, folded as an envelope. The cover can be folded out, which reveals a lot of pictures and hidden details. The EP also includes a booklet with live pictures, lyrics and notes. This is not just a cover, but artwork that's a must-have in your CD-collection. From it's opening moment, King of Hearts reveals Stokka's emphasis on pop melodies and beautiful harmonies. His backing band, The Happy Campers, reinforces the songs' West Coast vibe with it's blend of folk, indie pop, and country. At the same time Stokka's lyrics expresses emotions of alienation, uncertainty and restlessness, feelings that many in this generation can relate to. Einar Stokka is an artist that should be followed closely. Several releases, including the debut album, is coming up in 2010.
