A Camp is a group made up of artists who have had success in previous projects...Nina Persson (The Cardigans), Nathan Larson (Shudder to Think), and Niclas Frisk (Atomic Swing). On the band’s US debut (a previous self-titled album was released only overseas), A Camp proves to be much more than just the sum of its parts. The gentle beauty of Persson’s angelic vocals, combined with a smooth multi-instrumental sensibility, a la Elvis Costello, and intelligent lyrics, make Colonia satisfying on all levels. Songs like “Here Are Many Wild Animals” and “My America” succeed in their big melodies and glorious singing. “Golden Teeth and Silver Medals,” a duet with Nicolai Dunger, is an achingly beautiful ode to the fragility of romance. And while the whole vibe of these songs is that of ultimate style and grace, it's the little things—guest musician Joan Wasser’s bouncy violin on “Love Has Left the Room,” the subtle wit on “The Crowning,” etc.—that satisfy time and again.
--Frank Valish [August 5, 2009]
