First Aid Kit, the Swedish-born folk duo, consisting of sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg, know that the phrase, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” rings true. The group has always been known for their precise lyrical songwriting and blissful, angelic harmonies. However, growing up, they didn’t think much of their vocal blend until audiences started to rave and offer standing ovations. The duo’s new LP, Palomino, marks a return to the joy they felt early on in their music career.
The sisters’ musical journey began at home, both literally and in their music-loving homeland. Folk music, especially from artists like Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and The Carter Family, sparked their love for music. Johanna said, “It was so much about the lyrics… and this medium where you could both have these stories and also be moved by this music. I felt like I belonged in that world.”
For their sixth full-length album, Palomino, the sisters wanted to challenge themselves and do something a bit more light and upbeat, which is different from their usual sad songs. They employed co-writer Björn Yttling of Peter Bjorn and John for some of the tracks. The result was a lush album filled with lilting, beautiful harmonies, storytelling, and lyrical prowess. The album title is named after the Palomino horse, which only gets more brilliant in color and style as it ages.
After a deep breath-inducing pandemic and public burnout from Klara, the duo has reconnected with fans and remembered how special First Aid Kit is. They’re looking forward to touring in 2022 into 2023. Johanna admits, “Whenever we make a record, I never know if we’re going to make another one.” However, the reality is the sisters have plenty more to offer.
In summary, the sisters have come a long way from their early days singing for fun around their childhood home. For First Aid Kit, music is more than just comfort; it’s a spiritual experience that makes them feel less lonely in the world. They hope that their music inspires and moves audiences to all sorts of emotions.