All things considered, predicting an afternoon in the company of Monica Birkeness sounds impossible. The Norwegian artist seems to make interesting choices at every turn. Now based in Los Angeles by way of London, the vocalist is on the move. Her upcoming full-length debut has the potential to move her up electro-pop and dance music charts as well.
Best known for covers of Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies” and “The Suburbs” of Arcade Fire fame, it seems the singer is ready to create a personality all her own. In naming herself artistically for the endeavor, Birkeness’ decision was most peculiar. Choosing to borrow the name from a character in the Wes Anderson film Rushmore sounds strange enough already, but the moniker Mr Little Jeans is also confusing. Once you get over the honorific of Mr. corresponding to a female vocalist, one must wrap their head around the music video attached to the song “Runaway.”
The lead single released from the anticipated album features a wardrobe lost in time hidden beneath the washed-out look of the footage. Not hard to miss is a man’s head exploding into water at the touch of a kiss or the inevitable chase scene of “Runaway.” Flying in the face of the odd and artsy angles, this track is incredibly catchy and filled with repeating hooks that are hard to dislike. Warning: the initial bass beat rarely leaves your side and will be hard to remove from your head. Due in August, the self-titled LP hopefully will offer more than a glimpse into the style and musical direction of Mr Little Jeans.