Backstrom releases debut album ‘The Carousel’

Based in the Swedish capital of Stockholm, the artist Backstrom resurfaces from a prolonged hiatus with a triumphant comeback, bringing us his debut solo album, The Carousel, to the world. Steeped in a rich musical history, Backstrom’s youth was immersed in the rock scene, only to step away just as success seemed inevitable in his 20s.

Now, a multi-instrumentalist and prolific songwriter, Backstrom’s creative spirit reawakens with an inspired burst, resulting in nearly 15 songs penned in early 2023. The culmination of his artistic reappearance is the brand new debut record which is sure to win over audiences with its unique blend of country, folk and rock influences.

Backstrom’s musical journey draws inspiration from 20th-century songwriting legends such as Leonard Cohen and the timeless sounds of rock artists like the Rolling Stones. In October last year, Backstrom made a resounding entrance with his debut single, “The Journey,” a precursor to a string of singles that paved the way for his first full-length record. Linking up with American singer Bart Topher, Backstrom forged a musical partnership that continues to shine.

Now bringing us his debut record, he shares the brand new nine-track album featuring the talents of Bart Topher alongside Backstrom with mixing and mastering from Gabe Wolf. The release kicks off with the lively “Train Wreck Coming,” a bouncy blues rock jam that sees Bart Topher’s rich vocals, coupled with Backstrom’s composition flair and Francisco Paz’s drumming talent, create a playful and timeless country rock experience. The song’s infectious energy and memorable vocals make it a delightful and thoroughly enjoyable introduction to the record.

“It’sToo Late – Remix” casts a smokey, downtempo sound carried by the laid back taps of percussion, sombre plucks of acoustic guitar and melancholic vocal work, draping sorrowful melodies over the timeless arrangement. With contrast from the sweet female backing vocals, this song captures an enduring country sound packed full of emotion and delicate songwriting.

One of the lead singles, “Animal” kicks off with lively string flutters before the vocal arrangement enters above the soft twang of guitar tones. Storytelling lyricism and beautifully crafted vocal harmonies cap the stripped back arrangement, where the mournful stretches of string tones blend perfectly with the lightly gritty textures of the guitar, resulting in an immersive listening experience that builds with the gentle strike of drums to deliver a subtly anthemic sound.

Other highlights on the record include songs like title track “The Carousel,” which hops with a restrained groove. Rhythmic guitar chords add crunch while the mellow shuffle of drums underpins Bart’s expressive vocals as the splash of drums raises the energy to theatrical aesthetic before hovering back down to the sweet guitar-driven grooves of the verse.

Backstrom’s debut single “The Journey (Remastered)” serves up a lighthearted country vibe where the soft touch of acoustic guitar, lull of bass and patter of percussion forms the backdrop for Bart to spin upbeat melodies. Intricate slide guitar adds elegant instrumental colour to the sound, offering a truly charming moment on the record.

The album closes with “Darkness,” this time led by the alluring female vocals that weave haunting lines above the minimal arrangement of lightly distorted guitar tones, soft bass notes and harmonica touches. It’s a beautiful conclusion to a superb debut record that offers variation while maintaining a cohesive thread throughout to present a memorable and enjoyable listen from start to finish.

Listen to The Carousel below