From the Valley to the Stars (CD - 2008)

Personnel: Björn Synneby (vocals, sitar); Jesper Jarold (electric guitar); Björn Bohlin (oboe); Kristin Lidell (trumpet); Lisa Ford (French horn); Charles Deramus (double bass); Nils Törnqvist (drums).

Recording information: Studio Grandqvick, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Unknown Contributor Role: Philip Granqvist.

On her 2008 sophomore outing, FROM THE VALLEY TO THE STARS, Swedish indie-pop performer El Perro Del Mar (aka Sarah Assbring) presents another set of wispy folk-leaning tunes. Assbring's songs are often centered around her breathy vocals and little else, resulting in a spare, strangely soothing album that is exemplified by the delicate, hymn-like "Glory to the World" and the pastoral "Inner Island." Like fellow Swede Victoria Bergsman (Taken By Trees, formerly of the Concretes), Assbring conjures up a twee chamber-pop atmosphere, but it never becomes overly precious, allowing FROM THE VALLEY TO THE STARS to work its low-key magic. minimize