The Chrysler

The Swedish ensemble the Chrysler earned global acclaim through their atmospheric, understated pop steeped in Americana roots, though their origins trace back to the electronic scene in Stockholm. Pelle Lindroth and Anders E. Rudström, who handled vocals and guitar, initially worked together in Moder Jords Massiva, an electronic dance outfit whose strict structure left little room for the material they were developing on the side. This led them to consider a separate venture, which took shape once they joined forces with keyboardist Nya Sampan—previously known for influential drum'n'bass recordings under the name Saemundur Graettisson—and bassist Herman Arfwedsson. The new songs by Lindroth and Rudström began to take form with additional support from Henrik von Euler, whose contributions on keyboards and electronics included access to his home studio, where a demo tape was captured in mid-2002. Those recordings generated enough interest to secure live bookings, prompting the addition of drummer Martin Sörbom as the group started performing. Multiple sessions at a Stockholm studio culminated in the release of their debut album, Failures and Sparks, late in 2003; though commercial results proved modest, the record drew strong critical praise and helped establish the band’s standing through a club residency in the city that regularly featured guest musicians expanding their sound. Work on the follow-up, Cold War Classic, commenced in 2004, with the album appearing that autumn to widespread acclaim and noticeably stronger sales. Live activity continued, now featuring Peter Rudström on bass in place of Arfwedsson, while growing awareness in the United States prompted Galaxy Gramophone to issue expanded domestic versions of both albums.