Rebekka Louise releases debut album

London-based Norwegian artist Rebekka Louise has been steadily making an impact in the city’s music scene, known for her distinctive blend of experimental pop and relatable lyrical honesty. From her small London apartment, she’s crafted a unique sonic output that’s earned her acclaim from outlets such as EARMILK, Forbes Portugal and Lefuturewave.

Her journey began in 2020 with the release of her debut single, “One Step Ahead,” and has since flourished with a string of well-received singles over the years. Now she brings us her most ambitious project to date; her brand new debut record titled shame is an old friend.

shame is an old friend presents a deeply personal exploration of mental health, serving as both a refuge and a battleground. Originally conceived as a Master’s thesis project, this album goes beyond academic confines to become a profound narrative on the complexities of mental health.

Rebekka’s candid approach sheds light on the struggles faced by those dealing with mental health challenges and the loved ones who stand by them, making it a powerful piece for anyone who’s grappled with guilt, despair or the arduous journey of self-acceptance.

Across the album’s eight tracks, Rebekka Louise serves up a masterclass in emotional storytelling, featuring lyrics that are raw and entirely uncompromising. Each song is a vivid tableau, painted with the shades of Rebekka’s own experiences and observations.

The music itself is a captivating mix of electronica, enriched by live string sections that weave in and out of the soundscape, adding depth and texture to the overall experience. This blend creates a sonic journey that is as intricate as it is immersive from the catchy alternative pop and danceable energy of opener “Twisted Affection” with its shuffling rhythm and compelling lead vocals to the poignant, downtempo ballad-esque sound of closing song “it was beautiful.”

From start to finish, Rebekka’s vocal performance on this album is extraordinary. Her voice, with its remarkable depth and clarity, navigates the album’s emotional landscape with a pure authenticity that’s at once haunting and beautiful. From the gentle whispers of vulnerability to the rousing crescendos of defiance, her vocals anchor each track, drawing listeners deep into the intimate world she’s crafted.

Commenting on making the record, Rebekka shares “My aim was to explore all the different aspects of being someone who’s struggling and being in a relationship with someone who’s struggling. I wanted to express how it makes both parties feel and the complexities involved. Creating this album was a cathartic experience for me, helping me understand my own emotions and gain a deeper understanding of others.”

Adding, “I wanted to challenge myself with the sound, experimenting with digital instruments to create something unique. It was incredibly fun and rewarding to push the boundaries of what I could do with synthetic sounds.”

Listen to shame is an old friend below