Johan Hammarbäck - Stanna Kvar (Black Vinyl LP)

Facts Johan Hammarbäck's new album “Stanna Kvar” is released on vinyl on November 13. The sound is classic and acoustic, airy, but it is absolutely not a nostalgia trip.

On his previous albums, Johan Hammarbäck has clearly shown that his expressive, soulful voice can carry an impressive body of songs with storytelling at the center.

His strong lyrics are often raw and dark, but always human and personal. “Stanna Kvar” is no exception. The single “Santa Fé,” an early stop on Hammarbäck's new journey, is part of an evocative song suite, surrounded by acoustic guitars, full Hammond organ, and a dynamic, swinging groove. As listeners, we hear stories of rootlessness, alienation, and hard decisions at life's crossroads.

Musically, we move through a familiar border zone, reminiscent of early Pugh Rogefeldt, Magnus Lindberg, and the hypnotic Van Morrison. But other influences are also heard here: 1960s and 1970s American and British folk music, Nick Drake, gospel songs, Elvis Presley, Southern soul, and Swedish 1970s pop.

“Stanna Kvar” was recorded over several intense days at Studio Skutan in Stockholm, with Ruben Engzell at the controls, who also plays bass on the record. Together with the other musicians, Errka Petterson and Emil Olin, they frame Hammarbäck's delicate vocals in a soundscape that unites a pastoral England with American roots and a Swedish storytelling tradition.

Everything feels here and now! Just like “Stanna Kvar.”