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#65 Utangarðsmenn - 45 RPM


Steiner, 1981
Icelandic powerpop, garage rock 

I consider this to be one of the gems of my collection. It's short, and it's sweet, and it is one of the first second hand records I ever ordered.

I first heard Utangardsman on the Power Pearls compilation, where they are identified as "The Outsiders", which I gather is the English translation of the Icelandic. Their song on the comp was "Phantom Bitch", and I LOVE that song. It's a sweet little number that perfectly captures the essence of having a hopeless crush on someone, so emotionally it's engaging; but beyond that, it has great vocal harmonies, an engaging sound profile, and a catchy melody. 

The other songs on this album are different in nature, but each delivers in its own way. I highly recommend.

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