Sin, salvation, blasphemy – dive into the darkly provocative world of Danish doom force KATLA with their new single “Grim Jesus”. The song is the third single to premiere from the three-headed Danish metal monster’s unmissable debut album, “Scandinavian Pain”, out this Friday via Napalm Records!
After years of honing their colossal sound and live energy, the band delivers an unrelenting blend of raw emotion, gritty riffs, and subterranean sonic battery. “Scandinavian Pain” not only marks a new chapter for the band, but also reflects their rise to acclaim – from humble beginnings at Copenhell Festival, to becoming a standout act in Denmark’s heavy music underground.
“Grim Jesus” challenges faith and confronts inner demons, inviting listeners to reflect on their worth and dive deep into themes of overcoming inner darkness and rejecting oppressive systems, showcasing lyrics that resonate with the resilience of the human spirit. Hallelujah!
KATLA on “Grim Jesus”:
“As the album was progressing and the lyrical and musical thematics were taking shape, ‘Grim Jesus’ was created. It actually started off as a song about feeling worthless and was also the working title for a long time; ‘Worthless’. On the lyrical side we tried to keep it in the mental awareness/health realm, and therefore examined what is causing this feeling of being a no-one. KATLAs critique of the Christian church is no secret, and ‘Grim Jesus’ was discovered in the process of its creation to have a link to the inherent heavy weight from the Christian church to its followers, whether it be socially or culturally. In Denmark, we are pretty much born into Christianity, as we are a Christian nation, and with that feeling of guilt, shame and not fitting in if you don’t submit to the Lord, it subconsciously makes you doubt yourself and your doings. Ironically, the church preaches that we should step in line, that we’re all sinners and we have to obey and serve the priest and God, while they abuse children and have kept women oppressed for centuries. Asshole hypocrites.”
“Scandinavian Pain” is a cathartic exploration of personal struggles, mental health, and societal critique. “Castle of Purity” is a searing anthem that calls out the abuse and hypocrisy in organized religion – a powerful statement about pushing back against injustice and finding strength in individuality. Produced by Lasse Ballade (known for his work with Solbrud, Alkymist, and Halshug), the record combines visceral sonic landscapes with a deeply personal narrative. Prepare to experience the raw power and unfiltered honesty of KATLA on “Scandinavian Pain”.
“Scandinavian Pain” also marks the debut of new KATLA bassist and vocalist Theis Thorgersen. His addition not only breathes renewed energy into the band itself, but imbues an evolved sound that is heavier, darker, and sharper than ever before. KATLA’s meaningful yet uninhibited sound and high-energy live performances have positioned them as a force to be reckoned with.
KATLA says about the album:
“Scandinavian Pain is an album about the shame of feeling depressed in a country that in many ways seems to be out of any misery or control of others. The inherent feeling of guilt, the despondent thoughts. The weight of cultural Christianity and being part of a system that is destroying both ours and other lives. It’s about watching the newest season of whatever decadent TV show is on while children are being murdered daily. All the songs are different, yet similar. This time, there’s an affirmation for you, who might need it, a story telling, a short grindy track, something with a blast beat, but of course also heavy sludgy doom. Welcome to the house of pain.”
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1. Don´t Let The Fuckers Get You Down 2. Goblet of Power 3. Dead Lover 4. Eating Grapes With Kevin Sharp 5. Taurus 6. Hunab-Ku 7. White Dagger 8. Grim Jesus 9. Castle of Purity |
[photo credit: Nikolaj Bransholm]
