KITE - VII
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Kite's 'VII' serves as a remarkable compilation that brings together seven 7" singles, now remastered, with the original full-length mixes presented on vinyl for the first time. Since their emergence on the Scandinavian synth-pop scene over a decade and a half ago, Nicklas Stenemo and Christian Hutchinson Berg, the duo behind Kite, have evolved from local stalwarts to internationally acclaimed artists. Despite this growth, they have never before released a full-length studio album. 'VII' marks a significant milestone in their career, encapsulating 14 of their most profound and intense tracks into a cohesive narrative that explores themes of despair, hope, and existentialism through their distinct blend of Swedish darkwave.
Formed in Malmö before relocating to Stockholm, Stenemo and Berg each brought their experience from previous musical endeavors, which quickly coalesced into a unique synergy. This chemistry became the foundation of their sound, characterized by brooding synths, driving rhythms, and dramatic vocals. Their progression is chronicled across a series of EPs, numbered I through VI, which laid the groundwork for what would become their signature style—emotionally charged, cinematic, and unapologetically dark.
Though Kite has maintained a relatively low public profile, preferring to let their music speak for itself, their live performances have garnered a legendary status, leading to high-profile festival appearances, international tours, and performances at prestigious venues such as the Royal Swedish Opera and Dalhalla.
"VII" presents a masterful exploration of Kite's recent musical journey, featuring collaborations with distinguished artists such as Blanck Mass, Anna von Hausswolff, and Henric de la Cour. This collection captures a broad emotional spectrum, from the dystopian pop sensibilities of "Hand Out The Drugs" and "Bowie ‘95" to the expansive, existential ballads like "Tranås/Stenslanda" and "Glassy Eyes," and the polished New Romantica of "Remember Me" and "Teenage Bliss." Kite’s ability to navigate between soaring emotional heights and deep introspection is on full display, reflecting the turbulence and triumph of the human experience. Their artistic commitment is palpable, with every track offering a testament to their dedication and integrity.
The music on this album is nothing short of magical, enveloping the senses in a beautifully crafted symphony of expression and allure. Niklas' voice is at the heart of this enchantment, consistently delivering performances that send shivers down the spine, leaving listeners in awe of the power and inspiration that a single voice can convey. Each track is a meticulously polished gem, whether created by the duo themselves or in collaboration with others.
Niklas’ vocals serve as the emotional thread throughout the album, weaving together a narrative that spans from the poetic and poignant "Remember Me" and "Tranås/Stenslanda," to the energizing "Changing," and the trance-inducing, club-ready anthems "Don’t Take the Light Away" and "Teenage Bliss." The rich tapestry of moods and textures is simply breathtaking, with Niklas’ voice shifting seamlessly from delicate to powerful, captivating the listener at every turn.
The energy, dynamism, fragility, deep emotions, and cinematic grandeur, combined with a dramatic yet danceable edge, make 'VII' a brilliant showcase of Kite’s versatility and artistry. This album glows with a myriad of emotions, each more stunning than the last.
Released on August 9, 2024, 'VII' showcases the culmination of years of artistic evolution, where each track is meticulously crafted, remastered, and presented as part of a unified narrative that is as emotionally compelling as it is sonically immersive.
Bravo, KITE! I eagerly anticipate the upcoming fall concerts!
Formed in Malmö before relocating to Stockholm, Stenemo and Berg each brought their experience from previous musical endeavors, which quickly coalesced into a unique synergy. This chemistry became the foundation of their sound, characterized by brooding synths, driving rhythms, and dramatic vocals. Their progression is chronicled across a series of EPs, numbered I through VI, which laid the groundwork for what would become their signature style—emotionally charged, cinematic, and unapologetically dark.
Though Kite has maintained a relatively low public profile, preferring to let their music speak for itself, their live performances have garnered a legendary status, leading to high-profile festival appearances, international tours, and performances at prestigious venues such as the Royal Swedish Opera and Dalhalla.
"VII" presents a masterful exploration of Kite's recent musical journey, featuring collaborations with distinguished artists such as Blanck Mass, Anna von Hausswolff, and Henric de la Cour. This collection captures a broad emotional spectrum, from the dystopian pop sensibilities of "Hand Out The Drugs" and "Bowie ‘95" to the expansive, existential ballads like "Tranås/Stenslanda" and "Glassy Eyes," and the polished New Romantica of "Remember Me" and "Teenage Bliss." Kite’s ability to navigate between soaring emotional heights and deep introspection is on full display, reflecting the turbulence and triumph of the human experience. Their artistic commitment is palpable, with every track offering a testament to their dedication and integrity.
The music on this album is nothing short of magical, enveloping the senses in a beautifully crafted symphony of expression and allure. Niklas' voice is at the heart of this enchantment, consistently delivering performances that send shivers down the spine, leaving listeners in awe of the power and inspiration that a single voice can convey. Each track is a meticulously polished gem, whether created by the duo themselves or in collaboration with others.
Niklas’ vocals serve as the emotional thread throughout the album, weaving together a narrative that spans from the poetic and poignant "Remember Me" and "Tranås/Stenslanda," to the energizing "Changing," and the trance-inducing, club-ready anthems "Don’t Take the Light Away" and "Teenage Bliss." The rich tapestry of moods and textures is simply breathtaking, with Niklas’ voice shifting seamlessly from delicate to powerful, captivating the listener at every turn.
The energy, dynamism, fragility, deep emotions, and cinematic grandeur, combined with a dramatic yet danceable edge, make 'VII' a brilliant showcase of Kite’s versatility and artistry. This album glows with a myriad of emotions, each more stunning than the last.
Released on August 9, 2024, 'VII' showcases the culmination of years of artistic evolution, where each track is meticulously crafted, remastered, and presented as part of a unified narrative that is as emotionally compelling as it is sonically immersive.
Bravo, KITE! I eagerly anticipate the upcoming fall concerts!
https://kitehq.bandcamp.com/album/vii
Tracklist:
1. Remember Me
2. Changing
3. Hand Out The Drugs
4. Tranås/Stenslanda
5. Don't Take The Light Away
6. Teenage Bliss
7. Demons & Shame
8. Glassy Eyes
9. Bocelli
10. Bowie '95
11. Panic Music
12. Losing (Feat. Anna Von Hausswolff & Henric De La Cour)
13. Hopelessly Unholy (Orchestral Version)
14. Hum Hum
