Smerz, the innovative Norwegian duo comprising Catharina Stoltenberg and Henriette Motzfeldt, have released an electrifying new remix album entitled Big City Life Edits. This release acts as a companion to their critically acclaimed May album Big City Life, bringing together an impressive lineup of artists to reinterpret the original tracks. Available now through Escho, the album showcases contributions from both American and Scandinavian talent, promising to captivate listeners with its diverse soundscape.
The project assembles a who's who of cutting-edge musicians, featuring the likes of indie sensation Clairo, electro-pop artist ML Buch, and experimental composer Astrid Sonne. Notable collaborators also include Erika de Casier, known for her unique blend of R&B and electronic music, as well as the evocative sounds of Fine and the experimentally daring They Are Gutting a Body of Water. Each artist brings their unique flair, creating a vibrant mosaic of sound that reinvents Smerz's original compositions.
Standout tracks on Big City Life Edits include 'You Got Time and I Got Money,' which enlists the talents of rapper MIKE, producer Zack Sekoff, Eisernal punk's Elias Rønnenfelt, and the ethereal voice of Fousheé. This melding of genres and influences results in a track that is both immersive and invigorating, embodying the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines the entire album.
Since the release of Big City Life, Smerz has been captivating audiences worldwide. Their ongoing tour has been making its way through Europe, where live audiences can experience the duo's charisma and talent firsthand. The excitement surrounding their live performances is echoed in glowing reviews, as Big City Life was featured in Pitchfork's list of 'The Best Music of 2025 So Far', validating the duo's creative vision.
For those who are new to Smerz, this album serves as both an introduction and a celebration of their genre-defying style. The duo's ability to seamlessly blend elements of pop, electronic, and experimental music demonstrates their artistic flexibility and the remarkable synergy they share with their collaborators.
As Smerz continue to expand their influence across the music world, Big City Life Edits stands as a testament to their commitment to pushing boundaries. The album's release not only cements the duo's reputation as trailblazers but also highlights the rich, collaborative spirit within today's music scene.
Jazz Monroe, a London-based music and culture journalist, has covered this significant release for various outlets, including The Guardian and The Independent, underscoring the widespread anticipation and intrigue surrounding Smerz's latest endeavor. Fans of the duo and music enthusiasts alike are invited to dive into the sonic adventures that Big City Life Edits offers.
Catharina Stoltenberg and Henriette Motzfeldt of Smerz as photographed by Alexandre Adamczyk