Mats Karlsson – ‘Mood Elevator’

(MK/Sound Pollution)

I’m a fan of Swedish guitarist Mats Karlsson of 220 Volt fame so of course I’m interested in hearing anything he’s involved in. ‘Mood Elevator’ is his second solo album and one that sees him venture more into hard rock territory after the laid-back nature of his previous solo album ‘The Time Optimist’.

It feels like an Eighties Hard Rock album which is heavily influenced by the sound of the Sixties and Seventies a little bit like Enuff Znuff and The Beatles vibe they are always associated with. I can hear what Karlsson is trying to achieve in his song writing and I think he has definitely crafted the album he wanted to. It doesn’t click with me though, the songs and their style just doesn’t appeal to me, I’m sure others who love the influences Karlsson has will find this a warm and enjoyable listen, but to me it just feels bland.

All the songs have retro influences, funky guitar riffs and psychedelic touches and it feels like a love letter from Karlsson to the music he grew up on and was inspired to become a musician by. As I’m spinning the album through the funky guitar riffs quickly wear thin with me and instead of been whimsical and retro, they actually become irritating. The elements and inspirations Karlsson uses in his song writing I just don’t like so therefore makes me not enjoy the album. It might be harsh to say but I do think ‘Mood Elevator’ will be an acquired taste for most given its style.

Karlsson has done a cover of Joni Mitchell’s ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ which flops in the middle of the album and it just doesn’t work. I’m sure Karlsson wanted to make sure it wasn’t a flat out cover and make it his own and add his mark to it, but it just falls wide of the target. I have to admit I’m not a massive fan of the original but it’s ok and I fully understand why it’s so beloved but Karlsson’s funky guitared re-working just fails to do it any justice.

If you’re a fan of Karlsson as a guitarist it is worth checking this album out but bear in mind Karlsson is stretching his wings and indulging his own personal tastes in his creativity. Keep an open mind and you may be surprised, but for fair weather fans this may be a little too off map to keep you entertained.

3/10

Review by Woody