Ja Ja Ja presents Smerz

at The Lexington

You might not have come across Henriette and Catharina (aka Smerz) before, but there’s a strong chance you’re aware of Catharina’s father’s work. No, not because he’s a giant of Nordic techno-pop, but because he’s Jens Stoltenberg, former prime minister of Norway and now Secretary General of NATO. But given the splash the duo are now making on the international music scene, it’s clear that Catharina is not pursuing the family business.

 

Composing masterful, deconstructive pop with a soft techno feel, the Copenhagen-based duo have charmed their way into the hearts of i-D, releasing their second single Because on the magazine’s website a few weeks ago. “Now if you don’t love this song then we’re not quite sure what to say,” i-D declared. “Because opens up a world of soft techno, replete with tidy, fleeting, vocals that give the track that kind of Tirzah and Mikachu vibe that we’re totally in love with.”

Smerz

Henriette and Catharina is Smerz. Photo: Press photo

As Smerz describe it, Because is “about being careless while wanting to care, and trying to argue whether you are happy or not.” With its release, the pair have established themselves as masters of blending thick bass lines, snappy pop sentiment and hypnotic R’n’B-style vocals. Now, after lighting up Oslo’s Øya Festival last year, they’re landing in London to make their UK debut on 25 February, kicking off the Lexington’s first monthly Ja Ja Ja club night of 2016.

As befits Ja Ja Ja’s pan-Scandi scope, Henriette and Catharina share the bill with two other up-and-coming Nordic acts. Finnish hip-hop artist View (aka 23-year-old Finn Juuso Ruohonen) released his highly personal rap EP Avalon in 2015 and has been labelled one to watch in 2016. Multi-talented Danish cellist, singer and composer CTM (Cæcilie Trier Musik) has been turning heads and winning acclaim since her debut EP Variations dropped in 2013. Now she’s back with the new mini album Suite for a Young Girl.

So whether you’re in the market for a mesmerising dose of the new sound of Scandinavia, or just want to know what the daughter of a world leader sounds like, either head to the Lexington on the 25th or check out the track below. Preferably both.

Henri Juvonen aka View

Henri Juvonen aka View. Photo: Press photo

Danish artist CTM

Danish artist CTM. Press photo

 

Where

The Lexington

 

 

 

 

Website

thelexington.co.uk

When

Thursday 25 February

Doors: 7.30 PM

 

 

 

Tickets

billetto.co.uk

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