This interview was originally published for Seether-Online.com on March 4, 2012.
If you’re a fan of female-fronted bands, but are sick of hearing the same tired voice recycled time and again, One Without might be the sweet relief you need.
Hailing from Gothenburg, Sweden, the 5-piece modern metal band is changing lives with their music. They’ve played shows in Europe and even shared the stage with Soulfly. Up until I heard them, Flyleaf was my all-time favorite “chick” band. But by a stroke of luck, I stumbled upon One Without.
Their music has a distinct flavor to it unlike the majority of female-fronted bands I’ve listened to. Singer Catrin Feymark has a haunting tonal quality with her voice, complimented by the screams of guitarist Kenny Boufadene. For a metal band, they put more effort into emoting with their songs, rather than trying to make every song as heavy as possible. Expect chunky guitar riffs and choruses drowned with some masterful engineer work, blending keyboards and electronics seamlessly into the mix.
One Without’s first big break came in 2009 with the release of Thoughts Of A Secluded Mind. Personal favorites from that album include, but are not limited to: “Farewell,” “Separation,” “Your Game,” “Before We All,” and “Reign With Hate.” But then again, I have to love “Distance Between” and “Withered Serenade” as well. In all honesty, Thoughts Of A Secluded Mind is one of those albums I can listen to the entire way through without having to skip a single track. But if you’re looking for a uplifting music that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, you’re barking up the wrong tree.
Their debut album is wrought with depression and longing. Lyrically, One Without’s music is cathartic. It cuts open wounds to bleed guilt, shame, and sadness. Driving percussion beats nail the songs home, perpetuating themselves where no other band has gone before–at least, not as successfully as One Without.
Their sophomore release in late 2011 brought even more attention to the band. And they are well deserving of it. They’ve spent much of their time on tour promoting their latest chapter, Sweet Relief. The songs have taken on a different, yet still distinct sound. There’s no denying that it’s the same band. Perhaps more U.S. bands should be following their example, though the market would definitely become saturated with copycat bands trying to emulate the success of the original. Sweet Relief follows suit with its predecessor; there is not a dull moment on the record.
Most recently, One Without released the music video for “Nothing To You,” which is the second single from Sweet Relief. Other notable songs to check out include “Pretender,” “Accusing Eyes,” and “Forget Your Pride” if you’re looking for a place to start.
And if you like their music, like them on Facebook. They are allowing fans to download their entire second album free of charge. Just be sure to spread the word about One Without and share with your friends.
