IN Kelly shares first solo record

Norwegian musician Kjetil Rønningen, now known by his solo moniker IN Kelly, has unveiled his latest musical endeavour with the album Under the Birch Tree, crystalising his solo adventure in the music scene after years of success with other bands. Having been a notable creative figure for many years, his musical journey first started at the age of thirteen when he began to pen original songs with an acoustic guitar gifted to him for Christmas.

Previously known as the frontman of Oslo-based punk-tinged indie rock outfit Bravo Papa, Kjetil has already left a lasting mark in the music sphere, releasing five full-length records with the band. With IN Kelly, he steps out as a solo artist, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of styles and influences, including The Smiths, The Cure, The Strokes and many others.

January saw the debut of IN Kelly with the release of the single “Sleepwalker,” followed by compelling singles “Thought I Was Your Sidekick” and “Back To Rome.” Now, he presents his first full-length solo album, Under the Birch Tree, a ten-track record recorded entirely by IN Kelly himself in Nesodden, Norway.

The album kicks off with debut single “Sleepwalker,” setting the tone with a resonating pulse of bass synth and the snap of electronic drums, creating a hypnotic soundscape against which IN Kelly’s smooth vocal leads intertwine. Putting an uptempo indie sound in an atmospheric frame, “Sleepwalker” sets a high standard for the rest of the album with its originality and memorable style.

Following up is “Thought I Was Your Sidekick,” showcasing the pop-focused side of IN Kelly’s sound with bright guitar notes and dreamy vocal melodies. The song blends elements of indie rock with a catchy chorus that at once catchy and entirely original.

With “Home to My Honeycomb,” IN Kelly serves up a folk rock inflected sound of jangly guitar chords, pumping bass notes and rattling percussion as the artist’s expressive vocals ride above. Spinning subtly lively melodies above, the arrangement injects hints of psychedelia with wailing synth lines and guitar leads, providing the perfect demonstration of his classic songwriting wrapped up in a progressive approach.

Filled with highlights throughout, like third single “Back to Rome,” where uptempo energy is driven by shuffling drums and twang of guitars as IN Kelly weaves picture painting lyrics that craft a nostalgic and transportive sonic scene, the album continues to impress while capturing the full-scope of the artist’s varied musical vision. “Something New” lays down a dreamy arrangement of elegant piano plinks above the warm strums of acoustic guitar to be met with airy vocal layers dance above to carry overlapping lines above.

Concluding the release with “The World Might Listen,” a smooth, lilting rhythm of tapped drums and pulsing instrumentation underpins gentle vocal leads to create a heartfelt finale to his stellar first album as a solo artist. As he continues to bring to life his highly unique and thoroughly enjoyable sound, 2024 has proved to be a breakout year for this talented songwriter and artist.

Listen to Under the Birch Tree below