JAN HAMMARLUND – The 1970's albums

Jan Hammarlund was a controversial figure to some, especially to the far left. One of the first in Sweden to come out as gay, Hammarlund became a spokesman for the Swedish gay rights movement. He wrote songs where he openly criticized homophobia including that of KPML(r) communist party leader Frank Baude. Remember, Sweden in the 70's wasn't as open as some might think as far as gender equality and sexual minority liberation go, and openly declaring your homosexuality was a bold move back then (and in some quarters still is, sadly).

Befriade från skolan (Silence, 1972)

Swedish vocals, English vocals

International relevance: **

Hammarlund got in trouble for other reasons too. His first album was withdrawn as the track ”Flamma stolt” used the music of classical composer Hugo Alfvén without clearing copyright issued before the release. A second editions was quickly pressed with the song substitued for a recitation of the lyrics. A pretentious panic solution that doesn't work very well.

It was obvious from the start that Jan Hammarlund was a gifted songwriter in the UK folk and singer/songwriter vein (Tobias Petterson mentions Donovan, an appropriate comparison). What you think of him largely depends on what you think of his vocals. He possesses a thin, high voice with a vibrato that reminds me of Buffy Saint-Marie. To me, that style soon becomes hard to stand and mawkish which makes it hard for me to sit through more than a couple of songs, even if the music itself is pleasant. Those who can listen beyond those mannerisms can probably enjoy ”Befriade från skolan” a lot more than I.

The album also features a Hoola Bandoola Band cover, a mellow take on the classic ”Vem kan man lita på”.

När bandet slutar spela (Silence, 1973)

Swedish vocals

International relevance: **

His second album blends original compositions with well chosen covers of Nationalteatern, Richard Fariña (the beautiful ”Swallow Song”, turned into ”Svalornas sång”) and the aforementioned Buffy Saint-Marie. ”När bandet slutar spela” is his best album by far, but I still have a rough time with Hammarlund's gossamer voice.

Tusentals stjärnor över Chile (Chilekommittén, 1974)

Swedish vocals, other languages

International relevance: *

Hammarlund's first foray into Chilean music that helped popularizing political singer Violetta Parra in Sweden. Half of the tracks were written by her, with additional songs by for example Brecht/Weill. A dull album, especially colourless following ”När bandet slutar spela”.

Landet jag är van vid (Silence, 1976)

Swedish vocals

International relevance: *

One Parra song, three by Malvina Reynolds, a couple of traditionals and more of that increasingly irritating helium vibrato. Guest appearances from Fred Lane (Bella Ciao, Tillsammans, Margareta Söderberg), Kjell Westling and Turid.

Igår, idag, imorgon (Silence, 1976)  

with Turid and Lena Ekman

Swedish vocals

International relevance: **

Hammarlund, Turid and Lena Ekman are a perfect match as they were similar as both songwriters and singers. When they teamed up, however, their music earned a more prominent Swedish folk feel (many of the songs here are traditional), with several of the songs performed more or less a capella. Interesting as an atypical curiousity, but largely unsatisfying as an album.

Innan tåget är på väg (Silence, 1978)

Swedish vocals

International relevance: **

 

Hammarlund brought Lena Ekman along and added several other prominent players such as thr always excellent Bosse Skoglund on drums, Greg FitzPatrick on bass, and guitarist Lasse Englund. Includes songs by Malvina Reynolds, Björn Afzelius and Fria Proteatern.

Nåt på spisen med varann

Micke Malung

Ett rop som stiger (Silence, 1979)

Swedish vocals

International relevance: *

”I'll sing to you if you can stand my voice” begins ”Ett rop som stiger”, Hammarlund's second album of exclusively Chilean songs. Thing is, I can't. After seven albums (and a few 45's), I've had it with Hammarlund's vocals, and here they claw on my nerves even more than before, with Hammarlund singing in a strained and forced kind of way. Turid appears once again, and multi-instrumentalist Kjell Westling adds his bass clarinet talents.

Jan Hammarlund is still active and has released numerous albums over the years. He's also featured in ”Progglådan”. 

In my opinion, his greatest achievement is bringing attention to and fighting against the injustices brought on gay people. With the minor exception of "När bandet slutar spela", his albums are a sure pass for me.

När bandet slutar spela full album playlist
Innan tåget är på väg full album playlist