The Swedish trio are back with a refreshed fire and sense of purpose, as exemplified by Holy Water, the most recent single to be lifted from their forthcoming album.

Stockholm-based trio Normandie have faced similar struggles to many others as 2020 gripped the world with an unprecedented health and political crisis. Feeling shaken by the accompanying avalanche of emotions, they turned to something that has always been a familiar comfort; music. And here comes the announcement of their third album, Dark & Beautiful Secrets, which is set for release on 19th February 2021. An exploration that sheds light upon the band in a way never seen before by fans, it grapples with the band’s dark personal demons and uncovers layers of emotions that are normally buried. Speaking more of this, frontman Philip Strand admits:

This is a really dark album to me. There’s something about writing a new album that gives a freedom to be true to yourself in both sound and lyrics. We decided to be as intimate and personal as possible, sharing true stories from our past for the first time. We called it ‘Dark & Beautiful Secrets’. Everyone has secrets, each and every one of us has something buried deep down inside that we desperately keep hidden away from the judging eyes of the world. A secret that comes to light can be a beautiful relief. Proof that you have gone through the healing process and you’re ready to move on.

The recently released the fiery Holy Water song and video, a searing tour de force that calls into questioning the political systems and beliefs that we find ourselves entwined in. Fed up with the polarising politics that dominate popular discourse, they channel this determination into unrelenting instrumentals and demanding vocals. Explaining further of their frustrations, Philip says:

Herd mentality is everywhere today; in social media, religion and in politics. When the bubble burst and we’re left with just ourselves and our own thoughts – who are we? ‘Holy Water’ is about asking yourself; is my reality formed by my own or somebody else’s belief?

Tracklisting

1. Babylon
2. Hostage
3. Jericho
4. Holy Water
5. Mission Control
6. Bury Me Alive
7. Atmosphere
8. Thrown In The Gutter
9. Renegade
10. Chemicals

The band has also announced a tour for early next year, and you can catch them at one of the following dates.

March

24 – Southampton, The Joiners

25 – Birmingham, Mama Roux’s

26 – London, Powerhaus

27 – Manchester, Rebellion

28 – Glasgow, Cathouse

29 – Bristol, The Exchange