Abalone Dots

Formed in 2000, the Swedish country outfit the Abalone Dots generated worldwide attention through their popular blend of pop, bluegrass, and country, which some listeners called "softgrass." Softgrass Music served as their opening release and was soon followed by Avalanche Music. Rebecka Hjukström (guitar, banjo, dobro, vocals), Sophia Hogman (mandolin, cello, keyharp, vocals), Louise Holmer (bass, piano, vocals), and Elin Mörk (fiddle, vocals) traveled widely, appeared on television to promote their recordings, and in 2007 issued From a Safe Distance, which climbed into the Top Ten on Swedish charts.