THE RADIO DEPT., CLINGING TO A SCHEME

Every fall when the weather in Seattle turns cold and rainy, my musical taste tends to turn towards the atmospheric and at times the moody. Songs by bands like the Doves, Elbow, Sigur Rós, Flaming Lips (think The Softest Bulletin), Leaves, The Blue Nile, and Mercury Rev find their way on to my playlists. I actually have a playlist entitled Cloudy Days. This year, The Radio Dept.’s new album Clinging To A Scheme has been in steady rotation. 

From Lund, Sweden, The Radio Dept. shape rich, textured soundscapes built on hazy guitar lines, airy synths, and steady bass lines that anchor everything in place. The percussion is understated yet propulsive, creating a sense of momentum without ever breaking the album’s calm, reflective mood. The songs move patiently, never in a rush to reach their destination, and no single track insists on standing apart from the rest. It all adds up to a seamless, enveloping listen—perfect for a cold and rainy day, or any other day really.