Atanaria
Solence’s latest EP, Blue Monday, released via Better Noise Music, is a bold and electrifying entry into the evolving landscape of electronic metal. This Swedish-born, Los Angeles-based band continues to push boundaries with their distinctive sound and vibrant energy. Comprising three new tracks and two remixes, this EP is both experimentally fascinating and musically captivating—a celebration of genre-blurring creativity and the band’s mission to bring “fun” back to rock.
The EP kicks off with “F**k The Bad Vibes,” a defiant anthem that merges gritty riffs with euphoric electronic beats, setting the tone for the rest of the record. The pulsating energy of this track exemplifies Solence’s ability to deliver cathartic yet uplifting music. Following it is “A Banger A Day Keeps The Doctor Away,” a cheeky, adrenaline-pumping piece that leans heavily into the band’s knack for melding pop hooks with the visceral punch of metal. The standout, however, is “Who You Gonna Call? (Solence),” a track as infectious as it is innovative, marrying humor with razor-sharp production. It’s easy to see why this song made it onto the Houston Chronicle’s “Top 50 Best Underground Music Videos of 2024” list—it’s a perfect encapsulation of Solence’s playful spirit and musical prowess.
Adding depth to the EP are two remixed versions of their hit track, “Good F**king Music,” reimagined by Swedish producer MVRE and LA’s kodeblooded. These reinterpretations breathe new life into an already stellar song, highlighting the band’s openness to collaboration and their ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their core sound. MVRE’s version adds a shimmering, cinematic quality, while kodeblooded injects a gritty, industrial edge, both emphasizing Solence’s versatility.
What sets Blue Monday apart is its sense of purpose. Thematically, the EP confronts the struggles of depression and stagnation with a message of resilience and empowerment. Frontman Markus Videsäter’s raw yet hopeful lyrics are bolstered by the band’s dynamic instrumentation, creating a sonic experience that feels both personal and communal. Tracks like these do more than describe feelings—they actively work to lift listeners out of the darkness.
Musically, the EP is a testament to Solence’s experimental nature. The seamless fusion of rock, metal, and electronic elements, paired with anthemic choruses and infectious melodies, showcases a group that’s unafraid to innovate. Their sound is polished without feeling overproduced, and every track bursts with the kind of energy that demands a live audience.
As a whole, Blue Monday is a brilliant addition to Solence’s discography and a standout release in the electronic metal genre. The band’s ability to experiment while staying true to their identity is commendable, and their unrelenting commitment to uplifting their audience is palpable throughout the EP. With Blue Monday, Solence proves once again why they are one of the most exciting acts in modern rock.
For anyone looking to shake off the gloom of the season—or just seeking a refreshing dose of genre-defying excellence—this EP is a must-listen. Solence’s blend of innovation, energy, and heart is unparalleled, earning Blue Monday a well-deserved 9.5/10 in our books.
