Made In Sweden

Overview of "Made In Sweden (With Love)"

"Made In Sweden (With Love)" is the debut studio album from the Swedish jazz-rock trio Made In Sweden, released in late 1968 under the Sonet label (SLP-71). The band, formed in Stockholm, includes guitarist George "Jojje" Wadenius, bassist Bo Häggström, and drummer Tommy "Slim" Borgudd. This album marks one of the early entries into the jazz-rock fusion genre in Europe.

Musical Style and Influence

The album blends elements of blues-rock and modal jazz, featuring intricate guitar solos and complex rhythms. Wadenius's fiery guitar work complements Häggström's walking bass lines, while Borgudd’s drumming provides a solid foundation. This combination creates a sound that is both energetic and sophisticated. The band's approach to jazz-rock is evident in their reinterpretations of various pieces, such as Henry Mancini's "Peter Gunn" and Charles Lloyd's "Sombrero Sam." They also tackle The Beatles' "A Day In The Life," showcasing their ability to merge different musical styles.

Track Highlights

Among the original tracks, "I Don't Care," "Little Dame," and "Little Charlie" stand out as examples of the band’s unique writing style. The album features a total of eight tracks that exhibit a range of influences and showcase the band’s versatility. The inclusion of jazz standards alongside original compositions reflects their innovative approach to music at the time.

Production and Reception

The album was produced by Gunnar Bergström and Rune Öfwerman, with sound recording handled by Gert Palmcrantz at Europa Film Studios in Stockholm. The cover design was created by Yngve Solberg, accompanied by photography from Carl Johan Rönn. "Made In Sweden (With Love)" earned the Swedish Grammis award for best pop/rock album of 1969, highlighting its impact in the local music scene.

Legacy of the Band Members

Each member of Made In Sweden has had a successful career following the album's release. George Wadenius later played with Blood, Sweat & Tears and the Saturday Night Live Band. Tommy Borgudd became known as a session drummer for ABBA and even pursued a career as a Formula 1 driver. Bo Häggström, while less publicized, also contributed significantly to the Swedish music scene.

The album was recorded in 1968 at Europa Film Studios, Stockholm, Sweden.