Todd Terje – It’s Album Time

Norweigan DJ, songwriter and producer Todd Terje may be the king of summer soundtracks, but until now his insatiably upbeat musical style has not been collected within the confines of an album. It’s fitting then that his first, released in April 2014, is titled It’s Album Time.

Terje produces dance-disco as it should be – unpretentious, uncomplicated and unbelievably catchy. His own brand of humour is injected into everything he creates. If he wants silly sound effects, he’ll work them in; it’s a refreshing attitude in a world of über-cool, self-aware DJs.

Strandbar, which is Norweigan for beach bar, is as cheesy as expected – perfect for sipping piña coladas with George Michael down at Club Tropicana. Alongside Strandbar, Inspector Norse is the album’s standout song. Like a guilty crush, you know you shouldn’t want it, but its playfulness is irresistible. Between these two tracks however, is a synthy, kitsch, neon-infused blur which seems inconsequential in comparison.

Deloreon Dynamite with its part computer game, part 80s cop movie soundtrack – like Super Mario with added bass – somehow works, but the rest of the album falls short of the effortless dance ease that Terje conjours in Strandbar and Inspector Norse. With dance-disco as perfect as that, who needs fillers?

At the peak of the album is a cover of Robert Palmer’s Johnny and Mary. The ballad, featuring Bryan Ferry, seems slightly out of place among Terje’s carefree dance – like a jolt of responsibility hitting you mid-pool party – but the track adds an extra dynamic, and hints at a sadness hiding behind the ridiculous kitsch. Life isn’t all about sunbathing and parties, after all.

Probably the most upbeat elevator music you’ll ever hear; Todd Terje might not suit everyone’s taste, but once it has etched itself onto the brain, appetites will grow.

Sarah Edmonds

It’s Album Time was released on 8^th April 2014. For further information or to order the album visit Todd Terje’s website here.

Watch the video for Inspector Norse here: