Small town, big dreams

One of Norway's most critically acclaimed pop performers will serve up her own special sounds this weekend. Swedish/Norwegian artist Karin Park grew up in Djura, a small town of 400 inhabitants in the middle of Sweden.

At the age of 16 she moved away from home to study music and ended up in Bergen, Norway.

Bergen was buzzing with quality musicians and diverse music scene and it was here she planted her roots.

By 2003, at the age of 24, Park had become an established talent and had a string of radio hits under her belt after releasing one very successful album.

In that year she was awarded "best newcomer" by the Norwegian music business for her debut album. The debut album's title track Super World Unknown, was nominated by one of Norway's biggest radio stations as one of the best Norwegian songs of all time.

Park's music can be described as modern Norwegian pop/rock with rich lyrics and strong music. Park is blessed with a fantastically charming voice.

Today she is still based in Bergen and through experience her pop songs have become stronger and more varied.

The message is becoming more important, she says.

"I am striving to be an artist who has the ability to make people think", she says.

Park and her band will also perform at next week's Midi Music Festival, held from May 1 to 4 at Haidian Park. For tickets to the festival call China Ticket Online at 64177845.

Chen Nan

Tonight: 13 Club

Tomorrow night: New Get Lucky Bar

(China Daily 04/26/2008 page6)