Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, recording artist and founder of the band Citizen K, Klas Qvist died on July 5th, 2021. When he died suddenly, Klas and his long-time songwriting partner Gudmundur Bragason were busy putting the finishing touches on what was to be the third album by Agony Street, the band they started back in 1990. Having recorded two classic pop albums, 119 Agony Street (1991) and Songs For William (1993), their third, Italian Whisky was set to be the long-awaited reunion album by Agony Street. The album was nearly completed but was delayed in the wake of the death of Klas Qvist. Gudmundur did a great job finishing the release and Italian Whisky was finally released on February 3rd, 2023.

A profound consolation prize for fans of Agony Street and Klas Qvist's work in Citizen K, Italian Whisky is state of the art 21st century psychedelic pop/rock and is an absolute retro-pop classic. Another influence here, Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht, is evident on the theatrical title track “Italian Whisky”. The Baroque pop flair of “You Are Gwendolyn” and “Next Door To A Looney” are dazzling. The first video, “You Turn Me Off” was followed by a second video for “Utopia”, which is part of the album-closing, interconnected trilogy. With Klas and Gudmundur sharing the lead vocals, the 14-track Italian Whisky features Klas playing a number of keyboards and guitars. The sound of his electric harpsichord is especially evident on a number of tracks. Other guests include Jonas Nordin, who worked with the band before Klas died and was a valuable person in the final release. Also appearing are Klas’ girlfriend, singer Annika Larsen and Gudmundur’s wife Anki. Agony Street takes the pop music world by storm on their third and, sadly, final album. Italian Whisky is a modern-day musical delight not to be missed.