Various Artists
Picnic Basket (A Shelflife International Pop Compilation)
(2001)
Reviewed by Anna Maria Stjärnell
Summer is coming along and you're looking for something breezy and carefree to put on. This international twee-pop compilation could suit you just fine. Shelflife have gathered bands from all around the world to create a soundtrack for sunny days with the occasional rain shower.
The Pearly Gatecrasher's "Summer's Here" is good for when the sun's just come out and you are about to leave for a day on the beach. Postal Blue's "Fotoromanza" is for when that rain shower comes and you're feeling a little sad, yet not depressed.
These songs don't cut deep but they don't need to. It's not their thing to do. There are other bands for those moments when you need emotional support. This is surface music that doesn't demand that much participation on your behalf. These bands may be from all over the world but they speak the same musical language. This is music for falling in love and flirting, and that can be a beautiful thing.
