Rising Swedish post-punk band Rotten Mind serves up a heaping helping anger, angst, and darkness on their third studio album, ‘Fading into Oblivion.’

Ah folks, we have fresh blood on our hands, and no, we’re not being the least bit creepy or vampirical.  Rotten Mind isn’t a brand-new band, but it’s quite possible you’re unfamiliar with the post-punk band from Sweden.  Releasing their debut album in 2015 (I’m Alone Even with You), as well as a self-titled follow-up in 2017, their third album Fading into Oblivion dropped in September 2018.  In addition to incorporating punk, their third album can be described as darker and incorporating elements of 80s new wave.  All in all, Fading into Oblivion ends up being an enjoyable LP.

“Trouble Child”

“Trouble Child” serves as quite the tone setter for Fading into Oblivion.  Set in a minor key and featuring a driving groove with guitar-dominated production, the ‘punk vibes’ are easily perceptible.  Adding to the awesomeness are biting vocals, chocked-full of attitude.  While the Jakob’s vocals are commanding, interestingly, they’re mixed into the background.  Regardless, doesn’t affect the angst, grit, or overall effectiveness. Title track “Fading into Oblivion” follows in all its ‘glory,’ embracing a dark, hellish sound.  The minor key from “Trouble Child” is retained.  While the guitars have plenty of bite, there are some lush chords that add some beauty, even as the band is “fading into oblivion.”

Keeping things moving is the up-tempo “Unknown Station,” with its pummeling drums, and persistent angst and attitude.  Styled similarly to the tracks that precede, Rotten Mind retain their rottenness you might say.  They follow the ‘unknown’ with “Years of Decay,” the sole record to cross the four-minute mark.  Jakob continues to be impressive with his cutting vocals, delivering a truly believable performance you can ‘feel.’ 

“Lost in Me”

The distortion serves as a great kickoff for “Lost in Me,” another high-energy, up-tempo joint.  The script remains the same – if it ain’t broke, why fix it? “New Stories” continues with its heavy, hammering rhythmic tom drums and prominent thudding kick.  The guitars are boisterous, creating a wall of sound surrounding Jakob’s lead vocals.  Perhaps the sound is a bit overwhelming – messy to an extent – but undeniable is the black, dark timbre. 

“I Vår Betong” goes ‘straight for the kill’ – there’s no other way to describe it.  Jakob continues to be potent, fueled by busy, coarse production.  Short and sweet, in the most devilish way possible.  One of the better, more memorable songs comes by way of the furious, high-flying “Isolated (In the City).”  Man, oh man does the combination of a quick tempo, unapologetic accompaniment, and an angry frontman make for one badass rocker.  

Penultimate number “Restless Soul” has a tough act to follow after the thrilling “Isolated (In the City).” The good news is that “Restless Soul” continues the consistency of Fading into Oblivion, serving up all things dark. “Aspirations” soundly concludes Fading into Oblivion, even if the ‘aspirations’ are accompanied by a minor key without the happiness of major.

Final Thoughts 

If you love punk, New Wave, and noisy rock/alternative rock, you’ll be onboard with Rotten Mind’s Fading into Oblivion.  With the goal being conveying darkness, the band passes with flying colors.  Are the songs always completely distinct of one another? Not necessarily, but the impression one should get as an audience member is about the mood, vibe, and of course the spirit of punk.  At a slim 33 minutes with just 10 songs, Fading into Oblivion is certainly worthwhile.

Gems: “Trouble Child,” “Fading into Oblivion,” “Years of Decay” & “Isolated (In the City)”

Rotten Mind • Fading into Oblivion • Lövely • Release: 9.7.18

Photo Credit: Lövely