Music Review: Theresa Andersson - Hummingbird, Go!
Published October 05, 2008
Hummingbird, Go! is full of open space. Even when there are toe-tapping rhythms and multiple instruments, one still has the impression that it was recorded in a vast, open warehouse with all of the players spread out in it. Interestingly enough, the album was in fact recorded in Swedish singer/songwriter Theressa Andersson's New Orleans kitchen, with Andersson making use of a variety of improvised instruments pulled from the corners of her house.
It took a few listens before I began to appreciate the complexity and depth of Andersson's music. It's quirky and a bit more subdued that the assortment of rock-tinged pop that tends to be on regular rotation in my house. Putting away all other distractions and focusing on the album alone, I was able to hear the energy and drive of her performance that was not as apparent when approaching the recording casually. Andersson's creative use of unorthodox instrumentation and unexpected arrangements need the listener's full attention to be appreciated.
Despite the attention and care put into this recording, Hummingbird, Go! doesn't take itself too seriously. Listening to "Introducing the Kitchenettes," an instrumental track with vocals but no lyrics, one can almost hear the grins on the singers' faces as they move through the do-wap chords. Andersson clearly enjoys playing with musical styles and listener expectations.
The percussion rhythms on both "Na Na Na" and "Birds Fly Away" are toe-tapping and irresistibly dance-inducing, providing a balance to the beautiful-yet-mellow tracks that fill most of the rest of the album. The duet with Norwegian singer Ane Brun ("Innan Du Går") is particularly breathtaking with its intertwining vocal harmonies and softly plucked acoustic guitar.
Produced by Tobias Fröberg, who also wrote many of the song's lyrics (along with Jessica Faust), Theresa Andersson's Hummingbird, Go! is an artistic blend of organic instruments that culminate into an evocative soundscape.
- Music Review: Theresa Andersson - Hummingbird, Go!
- Published: October 05, 2008
- Type: Review
- Section: Music
- Filed Under: Music: Acoustic, Music: Experimental, Music: Folk, Music: Indie Rock, Music: Jazz, Music: Original, Music: Pop, Music: Roots Rock, Review
- Writer: Anna Creech
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Comments
Excellent Review. What I love most about Theresa is that the music has its own soul and spirit. I feel that it is a treat it see her live; her shows definitely are empowering. Has anyone else seen her live? Honestly, it is one of the most remarkable things I have seen.
I agree. Saw her in Nashville and can honestly say it was one of the best shows i have seen this year. My friends and I were all completely blown away. I think her Birds Fly Away video on You tube sort of shows what to expect.
If you really liker her videos then catching a live show is truly a unique experience. Visit her myspace page to see her upcoming tour schedule, and don't forget to catch her on the Conan O'Brien show February 4, 2009 I expect it will be her best performance yet.








Great Review. Humming Bird Go! really is a true treat for the ears, not to mention a technical treat from a musician in the complexity of the looping and musicianship. In closing, I just had the pleasure of seeing Theresa live and she was absolutely incredible, and if you have this opportunity this is a show not to miss.