Titiyo Is Hidden

Having found early success in 2001 with a pan-European smash single, Swedish artist Titiyo was left wondering what to do after the madness died. "Come Along," had made her a household name across the continent and she was even dubbed the queen of Swedish soul but like most artists she wanted more. After recording a follow up album in 2004 she was left puzzled and considered giving up music altogether. It was at that point that Titiyo decided to start over from the very beginning and get make to her roots. Taking her time, releasing a few records, and doing things right Titiyo eventually pieced together her most current release, Hidden.

Lush, majestic, folky, stark, and ridiculously good, Hidden is far from a soul record. In fact, much of Hiddenis like an electronic folk album that sounds as if Annie Lennox and Brian Eno combined forces. That's not a bad thing as Titiyo's voice is so seductive and sparse that it's hypnotizing. She sighs and coos her way through much of this record and as she does this she weaves a rich textural spell which you're ears will fall head over heels for. It's truly beautiful stuff that's as gorgeous as her native country.

And while Hidden is a beautiful record when Titiyo cranks up her Casio you're reminded she's capable of writing big pop hits as well as grandiose folk. "Crystal Clear Mud," is a perfect example of just how capable Titiyo is at writing a big pop song. Simple, sexy, and ready for a night out, this tune is a brief glimpse of her past and just how versatile this young lady is as a songwriter. It's nice to know that she still has this element in arsenal and when she revisits her pop roots again on, "N.Y." is a cause for celebration. While most of the album is a lush sensory exploration of electronic ambient folk these glimpses of pop are shiny glitter bombs that will remind you what Titiyo is able to do in a moments notice armed with nothing but a Casio and an idea.

Hidden in the end is a magnificent album from an artist who's still exploring the boundaries of her craft. Thankfully, Titiyo is so skilled at song writing that Hidden is a joy to listen to. With winter approaching and the days getting shorter Hidden is the perfect soundtrack to the changing seasons. Chilly, seductive, and majestic, Hidden is one of the coolest Swedish records out this year.