Peter Bjorn and John @ Liquid Room

In recent years a section of Swedish bands have been stirring up a reputation through a series of infectious and rather exquisite releases that have been undeniably, how shall I put it? Twee? The involvement of Victoria Bergstrom (of Concretes fame) in the most successful output of their careers to date, has seen Peter Bjorn and John (also Swedish, if you hadn't guessed) pigeon-holed accordingly. Twee by definition is 'affectedly dainty or quaint': an inescapable notion when listening to The Concretes, but PBJ's gig a the Liquid Room tonight suggested there is a lot more meat on their bones whilst also confirming that the tunes of Scandinavia are travelling as well as ever. The set, consisting of an energetic and surprisingly loud selection from each of their releases, showcased a live presence par excellence which this writer, for one, was unaware existed. Garnish with sprinkles of goofy Euro-humour and you have a recipe for what was a very impressive gig. [Finbarr Bermingham]