Bergen's John Olav Nilsen & Gjengen (the latter translating to “Gang” in English) had an instant impact on the Norwegian pop scene. Their 2009 debut For Sant Til Å Være Godt earned them Best Newcomer and the Classic Rock award at the prestigious Spellemannprisen awards, cementing the power of Nilsen's magnetic—and often controversial—personality. Juxtaposing synth-laden darkwave, agile guitars, and aching, tender vocals, the gang made two more emotionally wrought albums before their breakup in 2013.