Note: The final products may vary slightly from the mockups. BARRENS, a new band from Gothenburg, Sweden, features two members of SCRAPS OF TAPE, a well - established band with over 20 years of album releases on Denovali Records and extensive touring. Their last album, “The Will To Burn”, is an underappreciated gem. While there are musical similarities between the two bands, BARRENS carve out their own unique sound on their debut album, PENUMBRA. Driven by both synths and guitars, PENUMBRA explores the spectrum between the dark and bright sides of post - rock, with a tilt towards the darker tones. Conceptually, the album revolves around themes of change, metamorphosis, and the movement in and out of shadows. Guitarist Johan G Winther says it's about being lost in darkness yet finding comfort there. Before officially becoming a band, BARRENS members were already touring together. In 2018, Markku Hildén joined Scraps of Tape for tours in Europe and China. Bass player Kenta Jansson recalls that they quickly found a musical and artistic chemistry. Back home, they started writing demos, drawing on new inspirations. In 2019, PENUMBRA was recorded in Uppsala and Gothenburg, produced by the band, and mixed and mastered by CULT OF LUNA's Magnus Lindberg. PENUMBRA is a complex yet refined album. It doesn't sound like a debut but rather the work of musicians united by a strong bond. Winther explains that creating music is a cathartic release, a blend of positive and negative emotions, which is the driving force behind BARRENS and PENUMBRA.
To enjoy this album, simply play it on your preferred music - playing device. Whether you're using a vinyl player, a CD player, or a digital music platform, you'll be able to soak in the unique sounds. There aren't many specific usage instructions, just relax and let the music wash over you. As for maintenance, if you have a vinyl copy, make sure to keep it clean. Use a proper vinyl cleaning brush to remove dust regularly. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping. If it's a digital copy, ensure your device is updated and has enough storage space. Remember, this album is a work of art, so take your time to really understand and appreciate the deep themes and sounds it offers.
