Album Review: "Words For Living" by PJ Olsson – A Sonic Journey Across Genres
Released in 2000, Words For Living by PJ Olsson is a curious blend of rock, pop/rock, and experimental electronic sounds that defies easy categorization. With its eclectic mix of styles—ranging from indie rock to alternative pop/rock—it’s an album that feels like it was crafted for listeners who crave innovation over predictability. Distributed across Europe, the US, and Japan via labels like C2Records and Sony Music Entertainment Inc., this record doesn’t just sit comfortably within one genre; it dances between them with reckless abandon.
The credits alone hint at the collaborative effort behind this project. From Matt Fitzell’s basslines to John Fremgen’s keyboard work and Carl Stephenson’s violin contributions (on track 2), every element feels intentional yet unafraid to experiment. Producer Jamie Candiloro deserves special mention here—he helps glue together what could have been a chaotic mess into something surprisingly cohesive.
Two tracks stand out as particularly memorable: “I Am The Sun” and “Visine.” In “I Am The Sun,” Olsson’s layered vocals are complemented by shimmering synths and driving percussion courtesy of John Wolf. It’s not just catchy—it sticks with you because it balances introspection with energy. There’s a rawness to the production that makes it feel alive, almost like you’re eavesdropping on a private moment. Meanwhile, “Visine” leans more into the experimental side, blending glitchy beats with haunting melodies. When the remix version kicks in later on the album (“Visine (Laswell & Olsson Remix)”), it transforms into something entirely new, showcasing Olsson’s knack for reinvention. These songs don’t just exist—they evolve.
What keeps Words For Living engaging isn’t just its sound but also its willingness to take risks. Tracks like “Thorazine” and “Plastic Soul” delve into darker, moodier territory, while “Good Dream” offers a lighter, dreamlike escape. Even hidden gems like the aptly titled “Hidden Track” add layers of intrigue. You never quite know where the album will go next—and honestly, that unpredictability is part of its charm.
If there’s one critique, it’s that some tracks might feel too scattered for those seeking straightforward pop-rock hooks. But then again, maybe that’s the point. This isn’t background music—it demands your attention.
Reflecting on Words For Living, it strikes me how ahead of its time it feels. Back in 2000, when much of mainstream music leaned heavily on formulaic structures, Olsson dared to push boundaries. And yet, despite all its experimentation, it remains accessible enough to resonate. Listening to it now feels like rediscovering an old friend who still has plenty of secrets left to share.
Unexpectedly, I found myself wondering if PJ Olsson ever got tired of explaining his creative choices. If he did, he didn’t let it show. Instead, he gave us an album that refuses to be boxed in—and perhaps that’s the most punk-rock thing about it.
Rating: 8/10
