Lykke Li, Sång Fågel

I first met Li Lykke Zachrisson on a cold winter evening almost two years ago when I was working on a piece for Trace Magazine. Although the article never came to fruition, meeting the young songstress was a refreshing experience. At only 21 years old she was confident and eloquent - this was someone you could tell had figured out who she was from a young age. She told me how as a child she traveled a lot with her family, and those experiences helped shape her music. Li's music is a strange mix of upbeat pop songs coupled, with darker stripped down pieces. It's within these songs where she shows both her vulnerability and a softer side. The live rendition of "Tonight" filmed by Christian Haag, from her 2008 album Youth Novels, showcases her talent as both a performer and musician. Also if you're a fan of The Shirelles like I am, check out Li's homepage for a cover of their 1960 hit "Will You Love Me Tomorrow." Expect big things from this Swedish song bird:

The Most Hated Hunk

I have a thing for Scandinavians. Ever since my 2-month college romp through Europe, and my consequent discovery of those savage Nordic landscapes I've wanted to go back. If not for the beauty of the countryside then for the amazing Viking relics. Speaking of Viking relics, my favorite one stars in Lady Gaga's latest video for 'Paparazzi'. Yes, this video has been out for a while now, but I still can't get it out of my head. And when I say 'it', I mean True Blood's Alexander Skarsgård. His penchant for playing total macho jerks is oddly endearing.