Our obsession with Sweeter than Sorrow is only growing, having featured his cathartic and atmospheric single, Into the Night, and the inspiring, immersive and healing, somersaults. When we heard that the star had just shared his version of House of the Rising Sun – the iconic folk song with unknown origins, but made famous by The Animals, we couldn’t wait to listen!
Drawing us in with an elegant piano performance, the visionary artist shares his brooding vocal timbre with the iconic opening lyrics of the song, albeit slightly personalised as he sings, “There is a house in New Orleans, they call the Rising Sun, it’s been the ruin of many a poor being,
and me, oh God for one…”
We love the nuanced differences as Sweeter than Sorrow evokes an emotive vibe, and takes us on a timeless, yet what feels self-referential, journey with the opus.
We learn that the inspiration for this “utterly emotional naked” version of House of the Rising Sun was inspired by the soundtrack of Dexter – a fabulous serial killer show from the 2000s. The song itself is about “a life gone wrong. Remorse, misery, loss, and deep pain intertwine with longing wishes, bearing a bitter undertone.”
We deeply connect with Sweeter than Sorrow‘s version of the track, and speaking on his wider artistry and intention, the star, also known as Mattias Wåhlberg says, “It’s like me trying to come home to myself. Create something stripped down, a voice close and honest, beautiful, heartfelt. It’s a therapeutic project in that respect. Playing to my strengths with delicate piano and voice, bringing forth the vulnerability that’s always been in me.”
We have added Sweeter than Sorrow‘s emotive and unique version of House of the Rising Sun to our New Music Spotlight playlist, whilst we continue to stream his wider discography and anticipate future releases from the artist.