When did the first idea for your latest single come together?
To be honest, it’s difficult to answer. I often work on several tracks at the same time, so it can be difficult to determine where one ends and the other begins. Conceptually, they’re all part of the same story, one that unfolds with the song. Melodically, the first elements of “Folkvangr” probably started about a year ago, but the overall concept goes back even further.
How would you describe this song to readers who aren’t familiar with the band?
I think it’s immersive, atmospheric, melodic instrumental rock. In particular, “Folkvangr” contains far more shoegaze elements than other songs.
Can you tell us a little more about the meaning behind this track?
All tracks on the EP and upcoming album are inspired by Norse mythology, and more specifically, the afterlife. “Folkvangur” is Freyja’s territory, and half of those who die in battle go there (the other half go to Valhalla). This track symbolizes the journey of the fallen warriors there. The atmospheric soundscape depicts a spiritual journey escorted by a Valkyrie.
How do you think this track compares to anything you’ve done before?
As I said earlier, it definitely has a strong shoegaze vibe. It’s a little more experimental in structure and sound.
What was the most difficult part of putting it together and why?
The structure was important because we didn’t want all the trucks to look the same in that respect. I love combining heavier sections with lighter, melodic parts, but if every song had the same basic structure, it would get very boring. The other thing was to keep the length down, and also try not to make it boring. I tend to improvise around the main riff (which is how I always write), so I always end up with too much material. We made some tough choices about what to cut and what to leave.
Why should our readers check out this track?
If you like instrumental music in general, and guitar-based post-rock in particular, you’ll definitely find something to your liking. Or if you’re a shoegaze or blackgaze fan, there’s something for you there too.
Is there anything else you can tell us that we haven’t covered in this interview?
All the music I create is primarily for myself, and if other people like it too, that’s obviously great. I incorporate a variety of influences to create something that incorporates (almost) everything I love. We’ve gotten some great feedback on this track, which we really appreciate, but it wasn’t so easy to get it into our playlists. For some it is, but for others it is too heavy or not heavy enough. I hope that means there’s something unusual, if not unique, which is good for me.
Link:
https://solnedgang.bandcamp.com/
www.solnedgang.co.uk