Underneath Sweden’s mountainous stacks of lighthearted pop acts lie something slightly off the beaten path. Borgholm / Gothenburg-based group Bolywool have opted for a more airy and atmospheric sound built on a foundation of indie rock, ambient electronica, shoegaze and a darker style of pop.
On March 2nd Bolywool will release their new album Hymnals & Bombs. Consisting of 14 songs in total, the album is a dreamy wave of moody rhythms and cinematic soundscapes which feels like a sonic representation of a brisk Swedish winter. Layered vocals act as dominant elements in songs such as ‘Love Meander’, where ethereal synths are simply a supporting foundation. Swimming in a certain beauty within the arrangements are also tones of melancholy which are highlighted in tracks such as ‘Glorious Failure’ and ‘Hinterland’. Throughout the ride of Hymnals & Bombs, it feels like the ending will result in an enlightenment. Whatever the intent, it is evident that Bolywool are aiming at specific emotions rather than a soundtrack to keep you dancing, and this is actually a part of the magic.