Norwegian singer/songwriter Mikhael Paskalev, who has impacted his native grounds with his platinum selling single “I Spy,” is currently itching to impact the United States with his first EP, “Sayonara Saigon”, which was released to digital retailers here in the states on Oct. 28, 2014 via Mom + Pop Records.
This fall, Paskalev toured the United States for the first time, making a stop at Charlotte’s own Visulite Theatre, with supporting acts Courtney Barnett and San Fermin.
Paskalev opens his EP with “I Spy,” the inevitably catchy track. The accompanying visual for the track collected viral attention online, which features Paskalev dancing and jigging his way throughout a house in a dress shirt and tighty whiteys, while destroying furniture along the way. “I Spy” is uptempo, and boasts the simplest melody and harmony. The video has accumulated over 2 million views on YouTube. 4/5
“Susie” is a much more meaningful record, telling of Paskalev’s love interest. He says to her, “I said you ain’t been where you’re going, but I know you will,” assuring her that he’s confident in her potential and that she has room for growth. 3/5
“Jailhouse Talk” is the clear outlier of the bunch. It bares a solemn and slow sound, which is appropriate for the concept. It tells a story of an individual being imprisoned for murder, and metaphorically goes into detail of how it impacted friends and family members. “These stone walls they run your blood so thin. Goodbye roses and the colors of the seasons,” illuminates the scenario vividly. 4/5
The EP concludes with the title track. “Sayonara Saigon” exudes a combination of lullaby and ballad in its first sequence. The latter portion of the track abruptly picks up the pace and salutes the listeners in a complimentary manner. The song collectively includes the same harmonic structure as “I Spy,” making for a memorable chorus. 3/5
“Sayonara Saigon” is a pop and folk infused debut that will suit the alternative music scene accordingly. To keep up with Mikhael Paskalev, follow him on Twitter: @MikhaelPaskalev, and Facebook: facebook.com/mikhaelpaskalev