Liedström & Co release “Svenska Ballader” – tradition meets modern expression

Today, Liedström & Co release their album “Svenska Ballader”, a collection of interpretations of Swedish folk songs and ballads presented in a contemporary musical setting. The album features both new arrangements of classic works and original compositions inspired by the Swedish troubadour tradition.

Ahead of the release, the group has already gained attention with chart success in Sweden, a finalist spot in SR P4 Nästa, and a placement on the Swedish Independent Chart. The album also features Mats Ronander, who contributes harmonica on the track “Inget är vackert”.

Two of the songs, “Lycka” and “Inget är vackert”, are written by Liedström & Co themselves. “Lycka”, released as the first radio single, is described as a personal story about joy — from childhood to the driving force of music.

The album draws from Sweden’s rich songwriting heritage, connecting to figures such as Carl Michael Bellman, Evert Taube, and Cornelis Vreeswijk. The musical journey takes inspiration from Israel Kolmodin’s hymn “Den blomstertid nu kommer” from 1693.

According to the press material, “Svenska Ballader” is shaped by a strong narrative thread, where traditional songs meet new arrangements and original compositions, creating a warm and reflective musical expression.

Featured musicians

The album includes contributions from:

• Thomas Liedström – vocals, guitar, arrangements
• Love Tholin, Johan Randén – guitar
• Björn Görrel, Waldemar Skoglund, Björn Henriksen – double bass/bass
• Max Lorentz – organ, piano, bass
• Stina Krantz, Ninna Westerholm, Michelle Monie – backing vocals
• Tommy Liljegren – guitar, dobro, steel guitar, accordion, organ
• Mats Ronander – harmonica

Upcoming tour dates

In connection with the release, Liedström & Co will perform a series of concerts across Sweden:

• April 30 – Alingsås Valborg, Museiparken
• June 4 – Vänersborg Visfestival
• June 25 – Hemsjö Church, Alingsås
• August 13 – Nolhaga Castle, Alingsås

Background

Frontman Thomas Liedström has previously reached No. 12 on the Swedish charts, been a finalist in P4 Nästa, and placed second on the Swedish Independent Chart. He has performed around 500 shows and shared the stage with artists such as Albin Lee Meldau, Moa Lignell, Jakob Karlberg, Jack Vreeswijk, Dan Hylander, and Ebbot Lundberg.

In addition to his work as an artist, Liedström has been active in the music industry as a tour manager and promoter for Laleh and José González, as well as working as a music journalist and cultural editor.

“Svenska Ballader” is available from today.