In the past ten years or so, access to creating music and the resources to do so has become increasingly available compared to, say, twenty years ago. Giving many the chance to try their hand in the industry, whether that be for personal expression or having their eyes set on the stage itself. Take Denmark's Cold Culture, for example; originally, it began as two friends creating music. Then, after more writing, they recruited a guitarist and drummer to complete the ensemble. In 2023, the group debuted a string of singles, and in October of that same year, their EP "Afterthought" via Prime Collective. Upon entering the scene, they found consistently positive feedback from listeners, which, like any optimistic new artist, motivated them to keep moving forward. Their fusion of electronic pop and heavy music is grounded and adds character, leaving many listeners eager for more.
I was combing the web, trying to find something new, when I came across the artwork for "Back For More" (10/03), the band's second single of the year. I was perusing a list of releases when that cover in particular stopped me dead in my tracks. I immediately had to give it a spin; within the first thirty seconds I knew this was going to be a hit. I was right.
The song starts with subtle distant beats and electronic elements under vocalist Mads Zelasny's gripping words, gradually building up before transitioning to the verse, where drummer Andy Paul and keyboardist Michael Mentz fully engage, building the energy and pausing for a breath before bursting forth with full capacity. Guitarist Andy Joensen enters with a massive chorus that tugs at the heartstrings. All members convey raw emotion through their channels of sonic expression. The second verse pulls back from the explosive high; Mads's vocals are distant and ghostly but return with a clear and prolonged "Come back for me" that he repeats multiple times throughout the song's final chorus, which comes out even fuller than the last. As it draws to a close, the band transitions to a short but tasteful and heavy breakdown that sums up the emotions and theme of the track itself.
In a time when many artists chase the same sound, it makes one wonder, is there anything going against the norm? Anything distinct? I've personally found it rather difficult to distinguish one artist from another, but Cold Culture is that shining beacon towering above the crowd. Others have noticed. In 2023, the band began climbing the stage and has performed alongside many legends, such as Blind Channel, and is currently on tour supporting CHAOSBAY, Dead Posey, and Siamese. If you reside in the EU, this is your sign to grab a ticket and check them out live!
Cold Culture is:
Guitar - Andy Joensen
Drums - Andy Paul
Keyboard/Percussion - Michael Mentz
Vocals - Mads Zelansy
