Okkervil River (US)

In the eyes (or ears) of many, Okkervil River from the US has made one of this year’s strongest albums. The Stage Names, previously released on the great label Jagjaguwar, has made big media, picky indie critics, and not least fans of clever pop fall head over heels. Okkervil River was formed at the end of the 90s in Austin, Texas, after the members had emigrated from New Hampshire. Songwriter, singer, and guitarist Will Sheff has captained the team all along. Their debut album, Stars too Small to Use, came out in 1999, and the band’s fan base has grown slowly but steadily since then, until critics discovered The Stage Names earlier this fall. The album is a good place to start for anyone who isn’t familiar with Okkervil River. They play indie rock mixed with Americana, folk, and tender pop, to which you can add a broad selection of instruments, enticing melodies, and a sensitive storyteller with a big heart. This band could quite easily become a new favorite for those who’ve already embraced Bright Eyes, Magnolia Electric Co, or Rilo Kiley. In other words, at Øya in August you will have an opportunity to see a band that is most likely entering its golden age and that will be well worth staying tuned to.

www.okkervilriver.com
myspace.com/okkervilriver