In early 2024 at California’s Villa Aurora, once the home of German-Jewish author, poet, and political activist Lion Feuchtwanger, Swedish artist Molly Nilsson recorded Excalibur, the new single from her forthcoming new album un-american activities.
Nilsson’s recent artist residency through the Villa Aurora program facilitated the creation of this album from scratch. The fresh environment provided the freedom, space, and time to challenge her art and push her music into uncharted territory. This residency provided the perfect backdrop for Nilsson to explore new dimensions, allowing her to evolve and experiment in ways previously unimagined. It is a masterpiece.
Excalibur stands as a heartfelt tribute to an artist who was one of the first to be declared an “enemy of the state” by the Nazi regime, recognizing his struggle. Simultaneously, it serves as Nilsson’s sharp critique of the modern oppressions she has observed happening in the United States, acknowledging the nation’s perpetual promise that remains unfulfilled. This duality speaks to the eternal dance between hope and reality, between ideals and the imperfections of our world.
To fully grasp the album’s context, it’s essential to understand the history behind its title. The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) was a pivotal force in mid-20th century America, established to investigate alleged disloyalty and subversive activities among private citizens, public employees, and organizations suspected of having Communist ties. Its aggressive tactics, notably the blacklisting of artists, writers, and entertainers, created an atmosphere of fear and censorship, stifling artistic and political expression. The impact of HUAC’s activities reverberated through the cultural landscape, leading to a chilling effect on freedom of expression and prompting a wave of self-censorship that echoes into today’s societal and political climates.
Despite the heavy context behind the song and the forthcoming new album, Excalibur embodies the grand, soaring, anthemic choruses that Molly effortlessly brings to life. The video, co-directed by Nilsson and Txema Novello, beautifully encapsulates the song’s essence as we follow Molly, wild at heart, as she embarks on a road trip across the United States.
Watch the video for “Excalibur” below:
un-american activities will be released on July 7 via Night School, with physical copies released on August 16. You can pre-order here.
Molly Nilsson will be performing at the Grey Scale Festival in Munich along with The Human League, Ellen Allien, Kite, Ceremony, Schwefelgelb, Korine, Die Selektion, General Dynamics, Skemer, Sarin, and Kim Peers on Saturday, June 22nd. For more details and ticket info, please check out the festival website.
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