23.55 – Bo Kaspers Orkester

Since my first introduction to Bo Kaspers Orkester in 1999 with the album Hittills (a best-of compilation), the compelling sound I heard radiated a soulful warming hue.

Despite singing in Swedish and, at the time, having no understanding of the language except the translation of ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’, I was smitten by their mellow, smooth as soap, sound. Fast forward to 2019, and their latest album, after eleven previous, is rightly described as their most soulful.

The lead vocals of Bo Sundström are the trademark sound of BKO, and his ageless tone resonates with distinguished class and soothing richness. The band chord samples, inspired by artists such as James Brown and Barry White, are woven into new tracks like the funky Det Rulla På, Min Karlek, and Gud Ger Ingen Allt. Another soul legend Curtis Mayfield sets the foundation for the catchy Den Sista Resan. The melody of ‘Move On Up‘ is undeniably enthralling while melodies are transformed into alluring constellations with Swedish sentiments.

The candlelit ballad – Nu Blev Det Dumt transports you to the romantic soul days of Luther Vandross and Marvin Gaye. Vil du Dansa is a deceptively uplifting track, mellow to start before climatically scaling. The horns are gentle with feather-soft harmonies.

Där vill jag Vara is my standout recommendation.

The wah-wah groove of this funky track is 5+min of pure sunshine. The gospel-esque harmonies are spiritually angelic and wonderfully uplifting.

The album excellently ends with a ’60’s inspired ballad – Nu Ska Jag gå. Surprisingly, a couple of suspect notes do arise. However, I’m going to focus on the feeling and its appeal. Positioned last, it demonstrates the beauty of listening to a complete artists/band album to appreciate the full context of the work.

It’s interesting to realise it took so long for BKO to reveal its heart as a soul band, perhaps not a ‘tag’  they felt comfortable being labelled with before. However, with age come wisdom (for some) as well as the confidence to do whatever you like. Now BKO confidently expresses and shake their funky ass souls.

23:55 is an album for non-swedes to discover why Bo Kaspers Orkester is so highly regarded in Sweden.

It seems going back can keep you progressing forward.