In recent years, the young American duo Lily & Madeleine have been firm favourites of mine. In fact, I saw them three times in 2014: in Oslo, London and Stockholm.
The duo is habitually compared to the Swedish band First Aid Kit in the Swedish press in particular. This is not least because the Jurkiewicz sisters were discovered performing First Aid Kit’s “Our Own Pretty Way” on YouTube.
The problem with the comparison ‘the American answer to First Aid Kit’ is that it’s inaccurate. There’s nothing wrong with First Aid Kit — in fact, quite the opposite — but their sound is distinctly Americana. Lily & Madeleine are usually categorised as folk pop, but I’m not sure. Perhaps ‘indie pop’ would be more appropriate?
However, if you listen to both bands side by side, you’ll see that the similarities aren’t that great.
So what is so special about Lily & Madeleine? For me, listening to them is like drinking clear water — it’s a pure, liberating feeling. I think they are two very strong songwriters whose musical styles complement each other in a unique way.
I recommend listening to Lily & Madeleine, who have just released a new album. ‘Keep It Together’ is their third full-length album.
Speaking of comparisons with the Swedish band First Aid Kit, it’s not just that Lily and Madeleine like them – they are very fond of Swedish music in general.
Here is a Spotify playlist of Swedish songs by Lily & Madeleine:
Photo
Photo of Lily & Madeleine in London 2014 taken by Magnus Nilsson.