Svalbard release melancholic new single “How To Swim Down”
Bristol-based band Svalbard have released their latest single, "How To Swim Down," from their upcoming album The Weight Of The Mask, set to be released on 6 October via Nuclear Blast Records.
This emotionally charged track stands out as one of Svalbard's most moving works to date, featuring poignant violin elements by Liam Phelan and a profound vocal performance by Serena Cherry.
Accompanying the single is a beautifully crafted animated music video, brought to life by Boy Tillkens. The video is a heart-rending portrayal of the human experience, capturing both its fragility and strength.
Vocalist Serena Cherry shares her thoughts on the song, saying:
"This song is about the exquisite pain and sorrowful beauty of unrequited love. I think it's the saddest, most heart-breaking song we've ever written. Lyrically, the starting point of the verse is about concealment of adoration, before the chorus gives way to realising and accepting a fate of loving someone quietly from afar.
I cannot watch the music video for How To Swim Down without crying. Boy has captured the bittersweet emotion of the song so delicately, it's an incredibly moving piece of animation to watch.
Musically, How To Swim Down saw us dive into unchartered waters with Liam adding many layers of mournful violin parts onto the track. Finally, violins - for the first time in Svalbard history! It feels so exciting to have new instruments on a song. Another first is that How To Swim Down features only clean vocals, no screams. I wanted the vocal delivery of these lyrics to feel as though I'm whispering a secret to someone whilst they're sleeping. My vocals here represent that lonely type of communication, singing to yourself in an empty house. It's a private, selfless love song, where only the listener knows of my heartache."
The single is part of the upcoming album The Weight Of The Mask, recorded at The Ranch Production House, UK. The album promises to be a journey through the depths of human emotions, tackling themes of mental illness and depression, and striving to destigmatize these important topics.
Svalbard's unique blend of euphoric black metal, post-rock, and d-beat influences has gained them critical acclaim. The band's upcoming European tour dates include a string of headline shows across various cities, showcasing their evocative and powerful music. Svalbard is set to leave a lasting impact with their emotionally charged sound and their dedication to addressing important societal issues through their music.
Pre-order The Weight Of The Mask, and watch the video for “How To Swim Down”:
Upcoming European tour dates
14 Oct - NL Nijmegen, Soulcrusher
15 Oct - DE Cologne, Helios 37
16 Oct - DE Berlin, Urban Spree
17 Oct - DE Dresden, Chemiefabrik
18 Oct - DE Neunkirchen, Stummsche Reithalle
19 Oct - FR Paris, Backstage By The Mill
20 Oct - UK London, Beyond The Redshift - (Curated by Cult Of Luna)
21 Oct - UK Leeds, The Key Club
Svalbard comprises vocalist-guitarist Serena Cherry, guitarist-violinist Liam Phelan, drummer Mark Lilley, and bassist Matt Francis.
