Beloved Norwegian duo Smerz unveil another dimension to their forthcoming sophomore album Big city life, out May 23 on Escho. “Roll the dice” is a minimal drum-synth-one-finger-piano-riff-odd banger—soft-cornered and groovy, it’s an anthem to yourself. The song took shape as a thought experiment in a very dull room, 50% real memories, 50% fantasy. “It’s a post-something situation song.”
The initiation into Big city life is through singles “A thousand lies,” “You got time and I got money” and “Roll the dice.” Framed by Smerz’ signature voices and the bold minimalism that defines them, Big city life is a collection of moments and feelings gathered by Henriette and Catharina over the past four years. There are stories – both lived and imagined – of apathy, loneliness, talking to yourself, love and full-blown, almost manic freedom. Together, they form a sonic rite of passage, documenting transition in many forms, through both song and production.
“Some of the songs are pieces of advice to ourselves. Some are doorways into dreams. Some songs are secret wishes. Some are written for someone who is not here. And some are predictions,” explains Smerz.
Big city life is out May 23rd on Escho. Pre-order the album here and pre-save the album here.
Smerz
Big city life
Escho
23 May 2025
Tracklist:
Big city life
But I do
Roll the dice
What
Feisty
A thousand lies
Close
You got time and I got money
Big dreams
Street style
Imagine this
Dreams
Easy
Connect with Smerz:
Smerz’ critically acclaimed debut album Believer (2021) had The FACE saying “Smerz have created a lane all their own.” Always evolving, they continue shaping both underground and mainstream soundscapes—from the conceptual pop of ALLINA (2024) to their production work on NewJeans’ Get Up EP (2023). Their longtime NTS residency has served as a playground for their expansive influences, showcasing friends and music they admire while seamlessly blending everything from Schubert’s Die schöne Müllerin to footwork pioneer RP Boo. Occasionally stepping into theater, film, and museums, from their choir piece at the MUNCH Museum to fashion runway soundtracks, throughout their work, Smerz have been known for their ability to seamlessly navigate and create boundless sonic worlds. Big city life unfolds in the real world.
