'The Fallen Aristocracy' is the debut EP from Danish group Northern Portrait, who formed in Copenhagen in July 2007, and what a total joy it is too.

It opens with 'Crazy', which is total jangly guitar heaven. Think of 1000 Violins during the era of their original vocalist, John Little. As it moves on, it also recalls the Smiths at the height of their powers.

'A Quiet Night in Copenhagen' is reminiscent of 'Jeane', the B side to the Smiths' This Charming Man' in its rhythms. While singer Stefan Larsen's vocals recollect the 1000 Violins again and Martin Rossiter from Gene, the music features more of those full on jingle jangle guitars.

'Waiting For A Chance' sounds like a slowed down 'The Boy With the Thorn in His Side'. It also could be a Gene B side. Reflective and somewhat moody, it finds Stefan looking out of a window and dreaming of a better life.

It ends with title track which again sounds like the Violins at the time of 'You Ungrateful Bastard'. Fast in tone, it brings back memories of all which was good about the C86 era.

Totally perfect, it is the Single of the year so far.


Track Listing