Nicolle Periola June 2nd, 2015 - 11:09 PM
On the cusp of releasing her self-titled debut EP Myrkur in the fall of last year, female vocalist Amalie Bruun of Ex Cops has announced her return with a full-length album. Titled M, the album will revisit Bruun’s Danish black metal sound present in her first release.
Entirely recorded in Oslo, Norway, the album will embrace Bruun’s unique style, combining second-wave black metal, Nordic folk music, classical instrumentation and haunting choirs.
“The album is a story where the songs are connected … It feels like a soundtrack to some sort of Norse mythology horror movie with blastbeats. I wrote it about many things, as a goddess who wants revenge and to kill off people in my life, perhaps also a side of myself. I feel a strong sense of being divided into two, not one whole. a side of light and a side of shadows battle within me. And sometimes a disassociation to reality. A disconnect to the normal world and to what I am. This album tells my story and the transformation to one is complete in my mind,” Bruun said of the album.
In anticipation of the record, Bruun’s record company Relapse Records posted the album’s first single on their SoundCloud page. Titled “Hævnen”, the track begins with a haunting and dark guitar solo before Bruun emerges with her aggressive vocals. The single continues its forceful manner before concluding with a calming chorus, emphasizing the sinister nature of the track.
Recently, Bruun experienced a little drama while performing at SXSW as part of the band Ex Cops. Bandmember Brian Harding publicized a statement criticizing McDonald’s decision to waive compensation for performances at their SXSW showcase. Following the open letter, the company’s spokesperson issued a statement ensuring compensation for the artists. A month later, the band was interviewed by mxdwn’s own Rachel Zimmerman emphasizing the importance of making your voice heard as an artist.
M is set for release worldwide on August 21 via Relapse Records. Listen to “Hævnen” below.
M Track List
- Skøgen Skulle Dø
- Hævnen
- Onde Børn
- Vølvens Spådom
- Jeg er Guden, I er Tjenerne
- Nordlys
- Mordet
- Byssan Lull
- Dybt i Skoven
- Skadi
- Norn
