Made In Sweden

Label: Sonet
Country: Sweden
Released: 1969
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

"Snakes In A Hole" is the second studio album from the Swedish band Made In Sweden, released in late 1969. This album follows their debut and was released under the Sonet label with the catalog number SLP-2504. The album is presented in a gatefold format, which features artwork by Ardy Strüwer, adding a visual psychedelic element to the listening experience.

Recording and Production

The album was recorded at Europa Film Studios in Stockholm. The sound engineering was handled by Michael B. Tretow and Georg P. Foss. Tretow would later gain fame for his work with the band ABBA. The production credits go to Made In Sweden themselves, showcasing their commitment to crafting their unique sound.

Musical Contributions

Made In Sweden's lineup for this album includes George "Jojje" Wadenius on lead guitar, piano, organ, and vocals, Bo Häggström on bass and acoustic guitar, and Tommy "Slim" Borgudd on drums and percussion. Guest musician Svend Asmussen, a notable Danish jazz violinist, contributed his talents on the title track "Snakes In A Hole" as well as on their cover of Bob Dylan's "Lay Lady Lay." This collaboration introduces intricate jazz elements into the album's overall sound.

Musical Style and Themes

The album explores multiple genres, including jazz, rock, folk rock, and progressive rock. It features a mix of heavy fuzz-guitar rockers such as "Give Me Whisky" and "Discotheque People." Additionally, the band adapts the traditional Swedish folk song "Kristallen Den Grymma," showcasing their roots. One of the standout elements is the two-part progressive suite titled "Little Cloud" / "Big Cloud," which illustrates the band's versatility and ambition in their musical endeavors.

Awards and Recognition

"Snakes In A Hole" received the Swedish Grammis award for the best pop/rock group album in 1970. This accolade marked a successful continuation for the band after winning a Grammis for their debut album.

Technical Details

The album features a range of instruments, including electric and acoustic guitars, piano, organ, drums, and violin. It showcases the eclectic mix of styles that define Made In Sweden's approach to music during this period.

Tracklist

A1	Snakes In A Hole Violin [Violins] – Svend AsmussenWritten-By – G. WadeniusWritten-By – T. Borgudd	4:39
A2	Lay Lady Lay Violin [Violins] – Svend AsmussenWritten-By – Bob Dylan	4:48
A3	Discotheque People Written-By – G. Wadenius*	6:09
B1	Give Me Whisky Written-By – B. HäggströmWritten-By – G. WadeniusWritten-By – R. WallisWritten-By – T. Borgudd	4:23
B2	Kristallen Den Grymma Arranged By – G. Wadenius*	4:52
B3	Little Cloud Written-By – G. WadeniusWritten-By – R. Wallis	3:41
B4	Big Cloud Written-By – B. HäggströmWritten-By – G. WadeniusWritten-By – T. Borgudd*	3:02