It’s always fun discovering new bands, and I was recently introduced to a Danish band called Katla. Their debut album, “Scandinavian Pain,” is heavy, raw, and full of emotion. What initially grabbed me was the album’s artwork—it’s very metal. “Scandinavian Pain” starts with a calm, eerie spoken-word intro before Goblet of Power slams in with thick riffs and crushing energy. That sudden shift sets the tone for the whole album—unpredictable and intense.
The band introduces new bassist and vocalist Theis Thorgersen, whose rough, powerful voice adds even more grit to their sound. He kind of reminds me of Dan Weyandt from Zao. “Taurus was our first step into the ‘newer’ sound of Katla,” they explain. That song also features Ole Luk (Afsky, ex-Solbrud), bringing an extra layer of darkness. Another guest, Dale Smith, appears on “Hunab,” adding a haunting, almost meditative moment before the chaos kicks in again.
Musically, the album pulls from doom, sludge, stoner, and even grindcore. “Eating Grapes With Kevin Sharp” is a quick, 18-second blast as a nod to the Brutal Truth singer, while songs like “Dead Lover” and “Grim Jesus” mix slow, crushing grooves with bursts of speed. “Castle of Purity” takes aim at religious hypocrisy, and “White Dagger” brings back the intensity with sharp, unsettling guitar work.
Lyrically, “Scandinavian Pain” dives into struggles with mental health, frustration, and self-worth. But it’s not just about pain—the band wants it to be a release. “We love when hardcore bands scream their lungs out about frustration, but going home and crying yourself to sleep might not be the best solution. “Scandinavian Pain” is supposed to be a relief,” they say. “We’re not messiahs carrying the weight of the world for you, but we are here for you because we are just like you.”
Produced by Lasse Ballade (Solbrud, Alkymist, Halshug), the album keeps things raw and real. Nothing is over-polished, letting the natural heaviness shine through. Every track feels alive, full of purpose and passion.
Katla has made a bold first statement. “Scandinavian Pain” is dark, loud, and brutally honest. It’s the kind of album that hits hard but also gives something back. If this is just the beginning, Katla is a band worth watching.
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