As I was listening to Gimme Some, the newest album from Peter Bjorn and John, I couldn’t help but think about how consistently impressed I am by the production choices of Björn Yttling. This mustachioed maestro has lent his touch to a number of my favorite records over the past decade, and no matter if he’s writing, performing, producing, arranging, or composing, he leaves behind a distinctive imprint that’s as rhythmically taut as it is expressive.
I had a little time on my hands today, so I decided to throw together a mix that covers some highlights from Yttling’s career as songwriter, session man, and behind-the-scenes playmaker (and, yes, I realize I’m breaking one of the cardinal sins of mix-making by placing two tracks from the same artist on one playlist, but I figured I can grant an exception to the rule given the nature of the mix).
1. Primal Scream - “The Glory of Love”
2. Lykke Li - “I’m Good, I’m Gone”
3. Peter Bjorn and John - “I’m Losing My Mind”
4. The Hives - “Walk Idiot Walk”
5. Peter Bjorn and John - “(Don’t Let Them) Cool Off”
6. The (International) Noise Conspiracy - “Capitalism Stole My Virginity”
7. Anna Ternheim - “What Have I Done”
8. Nicolai Dunger - “Return of Love”
9. Taken By Trees - “Lost and Found”
10. Camera Obscura - “French Navy”
11. Shout Out Louds - “Tonight I Have to Leave It”
12. Robyn - “Jack U Off”
