Smerz by Benjamin Barron and Bror August Vestbø
New Single and Music Video for “You got time and I got money” Out Now
Beloved Norwegian duo Smerz announce their sophomore album Big city life, out May 23rd on Escho (Astrid Sonne, Molina, Fine, Elias Rønnenfelt). Written, performed, recorded and mixed by Smerz, 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.
The introduction to Big city life comes through the singles “A thousand lies” and, today’s release, “You got time and I got money.” The latter adds a new layer to the group’s distinctive palette, with a soul-sample-style beat and emotional string arrangements that conjure a sense of something classic – a sound you somehow remember. Framed by Smerz’ signature voices and the bold minimalism that defines them, “You got time and I got money” is a love song, drawn from experience. “I wrote the lyrics when I got my first real grown-up job and was in love at the same time,“ says Catharina.
Channeling the ecstasy of love, the accompanying video for “You got time and I got money” was made with Smerz longtime collaborators Benjamin Barron and Bror August Vestbø. The video features a collage of fireworks, big waves, fountains, and Smerz performing in a make believe TV appearance.
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.
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
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