Monolink Under Darkening Skies

When we sense impending waves of change, it usually presents itself as a weariness towards the unknown, hope for the start of something new, and the possibility of personal and societal evolution - leaving us anxious and altogether unprepared. For Monolink, the tides are indeed turning, and he stands tall, welcoming change like an old friend. His musical journey has always been reflective, and his second LP Under Darkening Skies, released on Sweat It Out, is another stepping stone towards the full manifestation of his artistic self.

Monolink (Steffen Linck) produces honest and thought provoking music that oozes with emotion, while his lyrics tell relatable stories of the heart. With a background in folk guitar, he remains rooted in the understanding of music as an ancient form of storytelling, lyrics and notes marrying to take the listener on a sonic journey through worlds and across genres. Therefore, Monolink's characteristic blend of indie-folk songwriting and pulsing melodic techno encourages listeners to trust his musical curiosity. He invites them to join him as they explore kaleidoscopic shades of electronic music past and present. 

Monolink adds -- "Under Darkening Skies is an album that's connecting different dots in my life, representing phases or moments I went through. I wanted to go back to writing actual songs again instead of adding vocals to a beat, which gave me the freedom to express more musical facets of myself. Eventually it became the most diverse record I have made so far, influenced by a time of global social and economic uncertainty at an ever increasing tempo of change. Like a dark cloud approaching."

Prior to the unanticipated global shut down of 2020, Monolink had been touring for three years without a moment's pause. With a year of live performances put on hold including a run at Coachella 2020, Monolink was finally still, given time to reflect and find authenticity above all the noise. Under Darkening Skies is the culmination of that stillness coupled with Monolink's tale of realignment. Alongside these themes of self-preservation and personal awakening, he weaves in nature-laden metaphors that juxtapose the inconsequentiality of human life when faced with the weight and power of the natural world.

Steffen's voice cries out to this effect in 'Reflections' while taking on the realities of a mind's journey in isolation aimed to resonate deeply with impending crowds around the world:

"Everything I see is a reflection of my ego
Everything I hear is an illusion in my head