Raskolnikov
On July 26, the notable European (with members from France, Switzerland, and Spain) post-punk outfit Raskolnikov published their striking new album “Stockholm” through Manic Depression Records. It is an eight-track release that follows the excellent Gorgon’Zola LP by six months, including five previously teased tracks, now titled “Stockholm I” to “V”, and three new additions, “VI”, “VII”, and “VIII”. The Latin numbers you see on Bandcamp unveil within the CD and the Vinyl as the tracks have ‘normal’ titles from the beginning to the end of the “Stockholm LP,” which is a beautiful festive release by the band formed exactly ten years ago on July 26th.
On their Official Website, I see they quote
“Raskolnikov’s music offers a content that is as melancholic as it is hypnotic and energetic, accompanied by existentialist texts, of futile redemption and the bitterness of Being.”
All true and precise, and all these words can also be ‘heard’ in their music and lyrics; a gorgeous blend with post-punk and shoegaze that doesn’t ignore at all the band’s clear indie background. Raskolnikov‘s music is consistently adventurous and surprisingly substantial, both for themselves and for the genre they represent. There is an official video for the track “XIII,” which also serves as the closing song of the album. Let’s watch it, and I’ll share more with you afterwards.
The “Stockholm” LP is significant; it serves as a guide for new listeners, illustrating the band’s origins, their creative journey, and their future direction. By revisiting five songs from their past, they demonstrate a deep loyalty and affection for their music. Additionally, the inclusion of three brand-new tracks provides a bridge to their future…present, as this band possesses a great deal of talent in creating this style of music, and the prospects are very promising.
One evening recently in Athens (GR), I had the good fortune to meet Mathieu Pawełski along with his girlfriend. Mathieu plays bass and provides vocals. The three of us enjoyed a few rounds of beer together and discussed a variety of topics, including Raskolnikov‘s ‘struggles’, music, art, and other fascinating subjects. What Mathieu shared with me encapsulated the essence of the band; everything he conveyed reflected their ‘codex,’ which resonates throughout their music and lyrics.
Their music evokes nostalgia, while their lyrics convey pain. They embrace the intensity of emotions and situations, almost igniting them. Amidst this intensity, there is also a significant amount of beauty, health, and a positive mood. Most importantly, I hear a sense of Hope in their work. What Raskolnikov creates doesn’t emerge from darkness into light, but rather from light toward even more light. As children of Europe, they carry the visible marks of their approximately 40 years on the continent, filled with snakes.
I could write more, but I don’t think it’s necessary. I believe you all understand my point. The only extra thing I’d like to mention about the “Stockholm” LP is that I recommend listening to it quietly, allowing its magic to unfold. Choose a track you like, listen to it 2-3 times in a row, and then let the album resonate within your space. Last, I want to share a hint regarding my own apocalyptic discovery within the album: the track “VI” and the song “Absoute”, one outstanding creation!!!
So, here is the new “Stockholm” LP by Raskolnikov, listen with care!!!
Keep up with Raskolnikov:
Written by Mike D.
