Oslo-based, dreamy R&B duo JIMMY SMASH burst into the limelight with their debut single ‘Macadamian’.
From start to finish Håvard Lyngstad’s smooth, dulcet tones are nothing less than mesmerising. Dreamy and floating, his voice exudes warmth and comfort, perfectly poised above a soulful ambience created by Mikkel Guttormsen, whose easy-going, swinging rhythm rolls gently along a bed of distant synths. The premise and underlying melody for ‘Macadamia’ was created on a “beat-up” Finnish guitar from the 80s, providing a certain nostalgic element to the instrumental.
Guttormsen and Lyngstad both grew up in Fredrikstad, Norway, and although they socialised in the same circles, didn’t cross paths until 2012 in Oslo. Mikkel is a classically trained pianist whose long-term affinity for hip hop, led to him DJ’ing at parties and clubs around Norway, showcasing his home-crafted rap beats. A multi-instrumentalist (guitar, drums, vocals) and initially working as a singer-songwriter, Håvard transitioned into R&B at a later stage after realising the freedom for intricate wordplay and complex narratives. Discovering a shared passion for soul, R&B and groovy beats, the pair have been continuously collaborating and making music in their home studio.
JIMMY SMASH’s promising debut delivers a musical breath of fresh air shrouded in mystery, and with more music on the way, the Norwegian duo are certainly one to watch.
These guys are on a mission to challenge pop music of today…and I have to say, they’re definitely on the right path…Have a listen to ‘Macadamian’.
New Lease Music 