Kings Of Convenience – Riot On An Empty Street

Riot on an Empty Street finds Kings of Convenience refining their quiet, intricate style with an even greater sense of intimacy and balance. Their interplay of acoustic guitar and close harmonies feels effortless, yet every moment is carefully shaped. The duo leans into stillness and restraint, letting melody and mood carry the emotional weight, while gentle arrangements draw from folk, pop, and bossa nova traditions.

The album’s calm surface hides deep craft—each song reveals subtle layers in tone and phrasing. Tracks like “Homesick,” “Misread,” and “I’d Rather Dance with You” capture a delicate mix of melancholy and contentment, showing the duo’s gift for intimacy without sentimentality. It remains one of their most beloved and enduring works, quietly confident and beautifully understated.

Reviews

"If you sort of liked the first record but wished it was more interesting, that it had more punch of both the sonic and emotional variety, then your wishes have come true." – Allmusic

“Riot on an Empty Street follows the duo’s motto ‘quiet is the new loud’ with pristine intimacy and melodic depth.” – Pitchfork