It took almost two years for Kalte Nacht’s latesest album U R G E to come to life, evolving through countless hours in home studios. Throughout these eight tracks, the creators distilled key internal moments of their deep, unavoidable journey inward and expressed how these experiences felt through all five senses.
U R G E (out now via Cold Transmission) is an album that embodies the strong desire to co-exist, co-create, reunite, trust, and bring hope closer to everyone. The band asserts that it is composed of tiny bits of conscious actions taken daily, nurtured, and enveloped by love. It represents an effort to shed light on the shadowy corners of human existence, approaching the essence of being human with tenderness and honesty.
With this album, Kalte Nacht conveys an intense urge to act—not just react—driven by a sudden realization that feels like an electric shock. Initially met with fear and avoidance, this impulse grows stronger, pushing individuals to confront their true selves and defy their imposed identities. As anger and isolation give way to hope, they emphasize the importance of self-worth, courage, unity, trust, and ultimately, the transformative power of embracing one’s true self and connecting with others.
Kicking things off with Runaway, this track dives headfirst into the process of healing and escape. It navigates through the pain and scars of the past while seeking solace and companionship. The song captures the struggle of running from fear and the crowd, yet still manages to face each new day with a gritty resilience. Despite feeling overwhelmed, it’s all about confronting the past head-on and finding the strength to move forward.
Next In A Wild Wave dives into a profound yearning for escape and emotional release. The speaker is in search of someone to help shoulder their pain, revive their spirit, and face their fears head-on. They crave both connection and solitude, aiming to embrace the light while also seeking a sanctuary to hide away. Dare To Defy navigates the intriguing paradox of being complete strangers who have endured similar trials. Despite the perceived dangers and misunderstandings, these individuals defy expectations and break the mold as game changers, all while safeguarding their inner essence.
A Howling Waltz brings back the nostalgia of winter cherries, painting a picture of deep connections and the drive to turn pain into power. It’s all about shedding fears, reigniting love, and chasing endless dreams. The imagery speaks to the hope of touching hearts and nurturing souls, with winter cherries symbolizing tears and shared memories.
The Last Breath delves into the journey of self-discovery and transformation, highlighting inner strength and the importance of moving forward.
Trust Fall emphasizes the need for self-awareness and recognizing one’s own needs. It’s about tuning into your heartbeat and inner truth to decide when to stay or go. The vivid imagery of light and exploding hearts represents moments of clarity, stressing the need for trust and understanding in making life’s choices.
Where The Deep Seas Meet tackles the tough challenge of changing a violent world view, highlighting the power of collective action and inner strength. The track reflects on the importance of luck, time, and the occasional granted wish, pushing for unity and perseverance. The imagery underscores the need to stand together, release past conflicts, and embrace a unified way of living, even as the world crumbles around us.
Listen to U R G E below, and order here
Kalte Nacht, which began as Nikos K.’s solo venture in 2017, quickly expanded into a duo with Myrto Styloy enhancing the project with her vocals. The fusion of dark-wave, urban beats, and atmospheric soundscapes defines their music, characterized by haunting vocals, the warmth of analog synths, and the rhythm of drum machines. Drawing from the vibrancy of the Athenian underground, intimate emotions, and the intricacies of human connections, Kalte Nacht navigates the fine line between the shadows and the light.
Their journey took a significant leap in March 2020 with the release of their self-titled 8-track album through Geheimnis Records, available in both digital and vinyl formats. The album’s instant popularity led to sold-out copies within the first few months, leading to the band gracing festivals like Wave Gotik Treffen, Sinner’s Day Summer Festival, and Death Disco Open Air Festival. In March 2021, the digital single ‘Our Moments Are Answers’ marked another milestone, followed by their alignment with Cold Transmission label in May 2022, which saw the release of their debut album on CD.
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