Mukka are Icelandic duo of Guðmundur Óskar and Kristjón Hjaltested and Study More Nr. 4 is their fourth album as Mukka, all of which have been put out on vinyl by the wonderful Reykjavik Record Shop label. It’s the 73rd physical release of the record store/label – a tremendous accomplishment and a true gift to the local music scene. It’s a must-visit should you find your way to the world’s most northern capital city.
You’d be forgiven for initially thinking you’re playing Study More Nr. 4 at the wrong speed as “Looking For a Number” begins, the languid notes making their way to you seemingly through a pool of water, or perhaps even something thicker. But no my friends, this is what you signed up for, what Mukka is delivering, songs slowly dripping psychedelia like ice cream making its way down the side of a cone on a hot day, sticky and sweet. If you told me “Sunshine” was a lost track from 1968, I would believe you without any hesitation, it’s wall-of-sound-esque pop coating my ears like a layer of latex paint. The songs are lush and colorful, dreamy and flowing, perfect for late summer sun and cool drinks. Event the lo-fi 8-bit-ish “Bit by Beta” has that vintage feel, an unlikely blending of the old with the, well, not-quite-as-old-but-still-pretty-old. Each track is lovely and unique in its own way.
Study More Nr. 4 is available on the streaming services, so go give it a listen. If you’re interested in a vinyl copy, why not go to the source and order directly from Reykjavik Record Shop? I’m not sure how many were pressed, but most of their releases are in smaller editions of 50 or 100, so you may want to get it while you can.