The Loveninjas

Swedish indie pop act, The Loveninjas, have never really taken anything seriously, including themselves.  Originally formed as the musical apparatus for Thor Helmstein's creations, the band decided on the current name following Helmstein's new obsession with Japan and ninjas, which began upon his reading the novel, Shogun.  Although they soon abandoned this unidimensional approach to songwriting -- the band sang about, and dressed up, as ninjas -- the playful, tongue-in-cheek humor remained, as is evident in songs like "She Broke His Penis in Two" and "Little Black Friends." 

The band's style is rooted in twee-pop, with jangly guitars and frequent falsetto.  There is also an element of bass-driven pop, along the likes of Brill Building Pop and girl groups of the 1960s.  If one can imagine, their songs are like a cross between The Field Mice and Tullycraft, with the sardonic wit of Belle & Sebastian.  They're certainly one of the best kept secrets of Swedish pop.  It's a shame they only released one album.

Albums:  Secret of the Loveninjas (2006)

Tracks:  I Wanna Be Like Johnny C, Care, She Broke His Penis in Two, Little Black Friends, Earl Grey with Honey