Electronic synthwave producer Das Mörtal returns with a new album, BURY THE SORROW, released on the 13th of October via Lisbon Lux Records. Now part of the world's leading Synthwave producers, the enigmatic artist is forging his own sound and aesthetic. BURY THE SORROW marks a new direction in Das Mörtal’s music making process.
Unlike previously released works that were inspired by imaginary narratives, the album deals with themes of mental struggles, pressure and other troubles brought up by the quarantine. It's personal and relatable, an expression of his emotions and thoughts. The worldwide pandemic not only shaped the overall themes of the album, but can also be heard in the individual tracks themselves that constantly change directions. From techno to trap music with hints of dark trip-hop, you can hear the unstable mindset in which the album was created while still retaining the occult electro & techno aesthetic that Das Mörtal has come to be known for. All of this is artistically complemented by visualizers created by the artist Guillaume Vallée and album artwork provided by the returning Marie Bergeron.
Das Mörtal began his journey in Berlin, inspired by artists such as Steve Moore and Aphex Twin. The producer focuses on a dark and nostalgic sound, skillfully blending genres from Techno to horror and sci-fi film soundtracks. With several EPs and albums released, he has appeared at numerous major festivals such as Osheaga, Transmusicales de Rennes, FME, and Meg Festival, while opening on tours for the likes of Vitalic, Perturbator, Gesaffelstein and Carpenter Brut. On stage, he has racked up nearly 100 shows since 2015, including more than 70 dates in the U.S. and Europe (UK, France, Scandinavia).
The focus track, ‘NOSHAME’ is dripping in nostalgia and drive. Washed out 80’s synth stabs punctuate the start of the track, before giving way to a trademark 4x4 synthwave beat and infectious guitar lick that carries the track forward. Abundant in lush chords and soundscapes, Das Mörtal sings about breaking free from one's own self-image and insecurities. It's the type of track you play while speeding down a highway late at night, engrossed in thought. “‘NOSHAME’ is about getting free from social pressures and accepting to be yourself in front of other people, even with your faults, because they are what make you unique.” said Das Mörtal.
Das Mortal had this to say about the LP: “Making this album had been a mostly difficult time for me, that was filled with unhealthy dark moments, but I wanted to end on a lighter and more hopeful tone. Even though the process of producing all these tracks had broken me a bit, I wouldn’t let it keep me from eventually finding life fun again. I thought that the classic “feel good” Breakbeat Hardcore beats from 90’s UK raves would help bring the idea of ending on a positive note home with its old-school breaks and stabs that made so many people rage on the dancefloors back then.“
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