With their snappy as shit sound, it’s hard to believe this group hasn’t received more hype from the blogosphere than it has. Truthfully, though, I hadn’t heard of I’m From Barcelona until I downloaded some monster indie mix online with the song “We’re From Barcelona” bundled inside. Since then I’ve given this album several listens, and I think it’s certainly garnered a place in my top 10 releases of the year.

Barcelona is a 29 member – yes, 29 musicians all with their own role – from Jönköping, Sweden. According their website, the group began in the midst of founder Emanuel Lundgren’s boredom. Having written several songs inspired by love and past vacations, Lundgren (in the red tie) turned his apartment into a mini sound stage where strangers would come to audition with their banjos, accordians and kazoos. Liking what he heard, Lundgren kept most of the musicians who auditioned and recorded the group’s first EP Don’t Give Up On Your Dreams, Buddy! Now, their latest offering, Let Me Introduce You To My Friends, is available in Europe and will arrive in the U.S. later this year.

Due mostly to size, I’m From Barcelona is often compared to The Polyphonic Spree. However, Barcelona sounds more like The Boy Least Likely To, with their instrumentation and harmonies. Lyrically, Lundgren sings about subjects such as being in love, getting the chickenpox and building a treehouse with child-like awe. It might all sound a little strange, and it is. But it’s absolutely wonderful.

I’m From Barcelona on MySpace.