The Cardigans' Nina Persson shares her musical journey and personal struggles in this captivating interview, revealing the band's unique origins and creative influences.
The Cardigans' Surprising Name Origin:
It's intriguing to learn that the band's name, The Cardigans, was inspired by their love for British music and culture. But here's where it gets interesting: their songwriter and guitarist, Peter Svensson, suggested the name, and it stuck! They admired the genius of cardigans as clothing items, romanticizing a rainy, hazy, and woolly atmosphere. This sets the tone for their artistic journey.
Covering Black Sabbath with a Creepy Twist:
Nina explains her passion for covers that offer a fresh take on the original. Their lounge-style rendition of 'Sabbath Bloody Sabbath' by Black Sabbath caught Ozzy Osbourne's attention. He praised it as the creepiest thing he'd ever heard, a huge compliment from the master of darkness himself. But was it their unique interpretation or the gender twist that made it so eerie?
Sweden's Musical Enigma:
The 90s Swedish music scene produced some of the happiest 'dark' music, and The Cardigans were part of this intriguing trend. Nina attributes it to various factors, from the weather and sparse population to the country's encouragement of artistic expression. She highlights Sweden's unique blend of surface happiness and underlying darkness, similar to ABBA. The country's support for creativity, including free instruments for children, played a significant role in their musical development.
Retro-Inspired Sound and Personal Growth:
The Cardigans' 1995 album, 'Life,' showcased a retro-inspired style, influenced by a Swedish band called Eggstone. Recording in their studio with aged equipment, the band found their sound. Nina reflects on how this album challenged their knowledge of 60s pop and shaped their musical identity. It's a testament to their ability to embrace and reinterpret retro styles.
Collaborations and Creative Connections:
Nina's collaboration with Mark Linkous of Sparklehorse was deeply personal. She admired him as a fan, and their friendship blossomed. Working together, they appreciated their differences, and Nina felt a need to support Mark through his mental health struggles. Sadly, he passed away shortly after Nina learned she was pregnant. This emotional journey highlights the impact of creative connections.
Exploring Americana and Sentimentality:
'Long Gone Before Daylight' marked a shift towards Americana, inspired by artists like Fleetwood Mac and The Band. Nina's appreciation for sentimentality and rawness evolved, moving away from the ironic 90s. This album opened doors to a lifelong love for Americana, showing the band's versatility and emotional depth.
Collaborating with Manic Street Preachers:
Working with Manic Street Preachers on 'Your Love Alone Is Not Enough' was a highlight. Nina's vocals complemented their songwriting, and recording together in the same room created a special connection. The band's tight-knit nature and creative process fascinated Nina, who values these unique collaborations.
A Love for Wales and Its Music:
Nina's collaborations with Tom Jones and Manic Street Preachers sparked a love for Wales. Touring with James Yorkston allowed her to explore Scotland's close-knit communities. She appreciates the directness and curiosity of these cultures, which align with her own creative spirit.
Overcoming Cancer and Finding Perspective:
Nina's battle with cancer at age 30 changed her perspective. She reflects on the consolation of suffering, appreciating art differently and realizing the fragility of life. This experience has left her with a renewed sense of vulnerability and gratitude.
The Future of The Cardigans:
After the success of 'Super Extra Gravity,' the band considered their next steps. Nina's desire to start a family and her cancer diagnosis led to a hiatus. Now, with logistical challenges, they contemplate their musical future. The recent success of 90s bands like Suede inspires them to create new music, proving that age doesn't hinder creativity.
A Surprise Namecheck in The Divine Comedy's Song:
Being namechecked in The Divine Comedy's song 'Sweden' by Neil Hannon was an unexpected honor. Nina, a fan of the band, felt flattered to be mentioned alongside brilliant individuals. This surprise connection adds another layer to her musical journey.
Skating and Creative Expression:
The Cardigans' album cover for 'Life' features Nina skating, a skill she acquired as a teenager. She recently retrained with a Malmö skating club, even performing on ice with a Finnish skating team. This physical art form complements her musical talents, showcasing her diverse creative pursuits.
And this is the part most people miss: Nina Persson's journey is a testament to the power of artistic expression, collaboration, and personal growth. From their unique name to their diverse musical influences, The Cardigans have left an indelible mark on the industry. What do you think about their creative evolution and the impact of personal struggles on their music? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation going!
