Kings Of Convenience | Reviewing Declaration of Dependence

The Kings of Convenience fall into the category of artists that are so smooth and relaxing they actually put you to sleep if you are not careful. If you do fall asleep within the first few songs you will be missing out. This is not the only album to come from the musicians that make up this band. One of them, Erlend Øye, has a side project that is as good if not better than the Kings of Convenience called The Whitest Boy Alive released earlier this year. In comparison to their last album though, Declaration of Dependence does not fall short. It’s as good as the one which featured guest vocals from the now forgotten Lesley Feist. The new one is more of a reflection on being young and not having made the most of it. With songs like 24-25 telling the story of a year in the life of an age specific person engaged in futile games involving heart shaped balloons and post cards, you get more of a sense of where this band directs its energies. Attempting to tell engaging narratives to the soft musical backdrop that is their sound, the Kings Of Convenience transport the listener to a quiet place filled with just enough darkness to counteract their positively relaxing melodies. Perfect for morning commutes on buses and trains, Declaration of Dependence will put in the proper mood for days filled with less pleasant prospects. Key Tracks off of Declaration of Dependence are, 24-25, Boat Behind, Rule My World, Renegade and Freedom and Its Owner.