Herald K, the Norwegian singer-songwriter based in Vienna, Austria, enchants listeners once again with his latest album titled Mythologies. With his enduring songwriting and timeless alternative folk sound, Herald K presents a collection of captivating tracks that immerse us in a world of elegant instrumental performances and his rich, subtly smokey vocals.
Opening the album is a previously unheard song called “Old Soul” which is followed by nine original compositions including re-recordings of the first three singles released in 2022: “Arethusa,” “Wandering Aengus” and “Circe.” These songs set the tone for the musical journey that lies ahead, offering a glimpse into Herald K’s profound ability to transform ancient myths and legendary folk lore tales into contemporary, thought-provoking compositions. The singles already garnered attention internationally, receiving widespread media acclaim and leading to exciting concert opportunities alongside esteemed artists such as Freeman Dre and Early James.
Building upon the success of his debut album, Strange Delights, Herald K further refines his distinctive folk noir style in his sophomore record. Assisted by a cast of exceptional instrumentalists from the Vienna music scene, including Stephan Steiner, Katie Kern and more, Herald K’s arrangements create an atmosphere reminiscent of iconic artists like Leonard Cohen and Nick Drake. The album’s themes revolve around mythology, exploring both ancient tales and contemporary narratives; universal stories that transcend time and place.
Each song possesses its own unique interpretation of mythology, showcasing the artist’s ability to craft original arrangements predominantly utilising acoustic instruments. The album’s production strikes a perfect balance between the old and the new, resulting in a progressive folk sound that resonates deeply with listeners.
Herald K’s vocal delivery remains hauntingly emotive and carries his songwriting with charm and grace, while the instrumental performances soar with elegance and precision. From the delicate interplay of nyckelharpa, accordion, violin and concertina to the warm tones of the bass, pedal steel, slide guitar and piano, each instrument contributes to the overall enchanting atmosphere of the album.
Herald K’s songwriting prowess shines through on the LP as he effortlessly transports us into a world of storytelling. His lyrics, often inspired by ancient and timeless literature, are masterfully woven into melodies that captivate the imagination. The album showcases a profound ability to create dazzling sonic scenes, drawing us into a realm where myth and reality intertwine.
The album credits highlight the collaborative efforts that bring Mythologies to life. Alongside Herald K’s vocals and guitar, the contributions of talented musicians such as Stephan Steiner, Navid Djawadi, Markus Mayerhofer, Nikola Stanosevic and Othmar Loschy among others enhance the album’s sonic depth. Produced by Herald K and Robin Gillard, with mastering by Walter Frotzler, the album’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in every note.
Herald K’s second album is a sensational showcase of his enduring talent as a songwriter and performer. With its elegant instrumental performances, well-crafted arrangements and Herald K’s distinctively evocative vocals, the album invites us to embark on a mesmerising musical journey. Each track is a window into the world of mythology, expertly composed and masterfully delivered. Mythologies is a dazzling display of Herald K’s artistic endeavours, demonstrating his ability to transport listeners to a world where ancient stories meet contemporary folk brilliance.
Listen to Mythologies below
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