Swedish multi-instrumentalist Sofia Härdig returns with a captivating new single, ‘Pale Fire,’ an emotional odyssey that seamlessly blends intensity and finesse. Teaming up with the legendary Bebe Risenfors—renowned for his collaborations with Tom Waits and Elvis Costello—Härdig has crafted a powerful track that radiates emotion.

Emerging from a self-imposed creative exile, Härdig’s process was nothing short of Herculean. “I wrote on my own in solitude for almost two years. I read a lot, wrote a lot, and recorded more than a hundred songs,” she shares. The magic moment arrived when Risenfors, after a spontaneous jam session in Malmö, contributed his signature touch to her demo. Härdig’s reaction? Pure emotion. “I remember opening the song on my phone and listening on headphones while sitting in a park. I started crying and listened on repeat. The best birthday gift ever,” she recalls.

Musically, ‘Pale Fire’ is a haunting blend of alternative rock, post-punk, and New Wave—a sound uniquely Härdig’s yet evocative of her influences. The track’s brooding piano and eerie chord progressions are the perfect backdrop for her commanding vocals, making it an instant draw for fans of Nick Cave, PJ Harvey, and Anna Calvi. The song’s visual companion, crafted by photographer Jessica Nettelblatt, encapsulates the track’s essence, born from a creative synergy fueled by mutual admiration.

Looking ahead, Härdig’s upcoming album ‘Lighthouse of Glass’ promises to be an ambitious endeavor. Self-produced and recorded between her home studio and a residency at the Visby Center for Composers, the album is set to showcase a diverse range of collaborators. From Robert Johnsson’s dynamic guitar work to the steady hand of John Essing and the expert mixing by Grammy-awarded Nille Perned, the project is a tapestry of talent and innovation. The unique recording setting, complete with Härdig’s kitchen as a makeshift studio, adds an intimate layer to the album’s creation.

With ‘Pale Fire’ set for release on January 17th and ‘Lighthouse of Glass following’ on April 11th via Bark At Your Owner, Sofia Härdig is poised to further cement her place as a luminary in the alternative music scene. This isn’t just music; it’s a deep dive into the heart of an artist unafraid to bare her soul.

Headline photo: Jessica Nettelblatt

Sofia Härdig Website / Facebook / Instagram / X / YouTube
Bark At Your Owner Website / Facebook / Instagram / Bandcamp

Sofia Härdig