Sylvaine has grown into a guiding light for ambient post-metal and atmospheric black metal, but today Kathrine Shepard, the visionary artist behind Sylvaine traces back to her roots with the new EP “Eg Er Framand”.
Growing up in Norway, amidst the contrasts between nature and urbanity, she often performed in the Kampen Church in Oslo. This 19th century relic is also where she recorded the entirety of this ethereal new EP.
The first single, “Dagsens Augo Sloknar” has mysterious origins – with lyrics written in 1891 by Elias Blix, a professor-turned-politician who also wrote hymns. Staying true to the original’s delicate, reverent melody, Sylvaine sings “Dagsens Augo Sloknar” in a breathy, elongated whisper that’s haunting and soothing at the same time.
The music video for the first single has been directed and produced by William Lacalmontie. A magnificent tapestry of landscapes on which Kathrine expressively dances. En enchanting and poetic production that beautifully fits this first single off “Eg Er Framand”.
Watch the video for “Dagsens Augo Sloknar” below.
As Sylvaine begins to unfold her upcoming EP, a fairytale intricately crafted by Kathrine accompanies this release:
“A beating heart so pure
Who wished to feel once more
As her eyes slowly opened to the world
She lifted her head
And at once beheld
A light in front of her
A path to take
The choice to make
To lead her on her way
A story about to begin
Of a soul ignited again
On a road to turn loose dismay?”
“Eg Er Framand” is out on March 22nd, 2024, via Season of Mist. Sylvaine latest full-length album, “Nova”, was released in 2022.
Available Formats:
• Digital Download
• CD Digipak
• 12″ Vinyl Gatefold – Black
• 12″ Coloured Vinyl Gatefold – Coke Bottle Green
Pre-order “Eg Er Framand” here and pre-save it here.
Tracklist:
1. Dagsens Auga Sloknar Ut (4:36)
2. Arvestykker (4:36)
3. Eg Veit I Himmelrik Ei Borg (4:47)
4. Livets Dans (6:09)
5. Tussmørke (3:15)
6. Eg Er Framand (4:46)
Kathrine Shepard, the visionary artist behind the evocative musical project Sylvaine, weaves an intricate tapestry of emotions through the language of music. A transcendental bridge between worlds, a mesmerizing duality that encapsulates the beautiful and the harsh, light and darkness, serenity and chaos, and the delicate balance between the external world and the inner sanctum of the soul. It is a symphony that harmonizes the human experience with its spiritual origins – a resonance of something beyond the tangible.
Sylvaine’s compositions are a visceral journey through the vast spectrum of emotions that the complexities of the human experience have to offer. They encapsulate the inherent struggle of being an entity in this world, yet not entirely of it. Katherine’s music serves as a conduit for her innermost feelings, a cathartic expression of the eternal longing that resides within the very core of her melodies.
Akin to a fairytale spun from the threads of Norwegian folklore, a narrative that resonates with the spirits of ancient woods and the whispers of long forgotten creatures. With every ethereal note and haunting melody, she conjures images of untamed forests, of misty clearings inhabited by mystical beings. In this artistry, there is an undeniable sense of transcendence, where listeners are transported beyond the confines of the ordinary into a dreamscape where reality and fantasy converge. A profound sense of wonder and allure creates a unique musical alchemy – with a touch of enchantment that lingers long after the music has ceased.
With four albums and one split-EP released to date, Sylvaine’s ethereal soundscapes have been taken to stages across Europe, North America and South America, leaving audiences mesmerized by the transcendent power of the band’s live performances. Two of these albums have been nominated for the Norwegian Grammy awards Spellemannprisen in the category of metal. The ability to transport listeners to otherworldly realm through her music is a manifestation of the artistry & profound impact the band can bring.
As Sylvaine prepares to unveil her upcoming EP, “Eg Er Framand”, she embarks on a deeply introspective and serene journey through the rich tapestry of Norwegian heritage and tradition. Folk tales of old are brought to life in this new chapter of her musical odyssey, offering a glimpse into the depths of her creative spirit and an exploration of the roots that anchor her artistry. A reflection of myths is embraced through exquisite sonic realms.
Line-up:
Sylvaine – Vocals, Church Organ, Guitars, Synthesizers & Percussion
Album credits:
Recording Studio: Kampen Kirke
Sound Engineer: Sylvaine
Mixing Engineer: Magnus Lindberg (Magnus Lindberg Productions / VRTKL Audio/Redmount Studio)
Mastering Engineer: Karl Daniel Lidén
Cover art & Photography: Helena Aguilar Mayans
Layout & Graphic Design: Dehn Sora
Weblinks:
www.sylvainemusic.com
www.facebook.com/sylvainemusic
