The debut album by the Norwegian duo Kings of Convenience was aptly titled, describing the philosophy behind their artistic approach while simultaneously challenging the world to a paradigm shift of sorts. Quiet Is the New Loud lent a contemporary voice to the echo of the American mid-century folk revival movement, focusing on sparse acoustic arrangements built around two guitars and two voices. Taking a page from Simon & Garfunkel, tracks like "Winning a Battle, Losing the War" are lyrical and potent, featuring close harmonies and counterpoint guitar parts. The more percussive, Brazilian-inspired guitar patterns on "Leaning Against the Wall" and "The Passenger" give the album a rounded currentness. For such delicate work, Quiet Is the New Loud is surprisingly substantial—a realized artistic statement that carries itself with heart and conviction.
