Royksopp
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.

Last month, a Norwegian DJ and electronic music artist had her first American release, “Anniemal.” On songs such as “My Heartbeat” and “Chewing Gum,” Annie’s wispy, accented vocals compete with heavily layered beats. But the songs on “Anniemal” produced by fellow Norwegian duo Torbj0rn Brundtland and Svein Berge, better known as Royksopp, are immediately identifiable: Annie’s soft voice blends with their trademark chilled-out beats to create a song that hovers somewhere between teen pop and house music.
The group’s own highly anticipated new album, “The Understanding,” is now out, and the duo is playing Irving Plaza tomorrow. The album mixes genuine musical chops and an atmosphere of aural quietude. Their 2001 debut, “Melody A.M.,” sold 1 million copies worldwide, and remixes of their tunes soon graced movies, commercials, and club soundtracks.
Those looking for the old Royksopp sound can find it on songs like “Beautiful Day Without You,” which features the familiar cloudy blipping and bleeping music that made “Poor Leno” so great. Those looking for a newer vibe can find it on songs like “49 Percent” – over a saxophone sample reminiscent of American producer BT’s really early house work, the vocals of Chelonis R. Jones bring a little bit of New York to the otherwise Nordic-sounding album. “Circuit Breaker” also breaks the “Melody A.M.” mold – the song recalls BT once again, but this time in a harder, more hip-hop fashion, complete with much faster vocals than usual.
The lead single, “Only This Moment,” is sure to become a club favorite: Kate Havnevik’s airy voice oohs and aahhs over sharp synth beats. “Tristesse Globale,” the last track on the album, sounds like a slow Debussy waltz enhanced with a touch of synth. It is the least decorated song, and it closes the album with a sleepy sigh of contentment.
Royksopp plays Irving Plaza tomorrow night (17 Irving Place, 212-777-6800).