Atmospheric, melancholic, and explosive: Two years after forming, the Berlin-based indie band Oktobernatt has released their five-track debut EP, "Coordinates°"—a record that invites you to hit play again and again.
When I recently clicked on a recommended music video titled "Rasa"—which had only a few hundred views—I honestly didn't expect much. After all, who produces music videos these days, and how often are they actually interesting?
However, I was quickly proven wrong. I was even more delighted to discover that the band behind it, Oktobernatt, is an independent group from Berlin.
The six musicians—Gabriel Jansson Svedberg (vocals), Vignir Vidarsson (bass), Alban König (guitar), Ole von Garrel (drums), Myra Amneskog (keyboards), and Joona Keturi (guitar)—hail from Iceland, Sweden, Finland, and Germany. They came together in 2024 and recorded "Coordinates°" at Berlin’s Trixx Studio (known for hosting artists such as Can, Dave Gahan, and Nina Hagen).
The EP features five gripping tracks characterized by dreamlike soundscapes and vocals filled with a yearning quality reminiscent of the unmistakable Beth Gibbons (of Portishead)—albeit in a grittier incarnation. Through beautiful vocal lines, distorted guitars, and melodic bass work, Oktobernatt create an atmosphere that pulls listeners into a world of their own for the duration of the tracks (which tend to be quite long).
The Berlin-based sextet describes their music as "dream rock"—perhaps the edgier sibling of dream pop. Furthermore, Oktobernatt have a genuine passion for music videos; the captivating cinematography accompanying their songs transforms the EP into something akin to a multimedia project. Strong Songwriting
The opening track, "Vonin," begins with an acoustic guitar arpeggio before becoming increasingly explosive—only to stop just short of a full-blown eruption. And that is precisely one of the band's hallmarks: building tension and a climax, only to take a sudden musical turn at the last moment.
The other songs largely follow this pattern, too—with the exception of the indie-folk ballad "Sweet One." This track highlights Oktobernatt’s songwriting prowess and offers a brief moment to catch your breath before sweeping you into the aforementioned "Rasa." The closing track, "(65.3968°N 20.9094°W)," brings *Coordinates°* to a fitting conclusion—leaving you wanting to start this captivating EP all over again immediately.
Joona, Oktobernatt’s guitarist, was also kind enough to answer a few questions about the band and the EP release—here goes:
Thanks for your time, Joona—how has the Berlin art and music scene shaped you as a band?
Hi Matti. Berlin is a melting pot for a huge variety of art forms and musical genres. There’s an underground gig with an affordable entry fee almost every night. Playing alongside other up-and-coming artists in such an exciting environment has been a fantastic experience.
In your opinion, what exactly defines your very unique sound?
I think every band member leaves their own unique mark on Oktobernatt. We’ve found our signature bass sound, paired with atmospheric guitar melodies, creative synth textures, and powerful vocals. Plus, each of us brings our own artistic influences and playing style—all of which come together to create our sound. You come from different countries and cultures—what role does this personal background play for you as a band and for your music?
Naturally, we draw a wide variety of inspiration and artistic approaches from that; all in all, it expands our range of expression and allows us to share niche music from our respective cultures with one another.
We can hear the result on your strong debut EP, "Coordinates°"—in what formats will it be available?
We’re releasing it primarily in digital format, but there will also be a limited run of CDs—and possibly even cassette tapes—available for purchase at our shows.
Does that mean release gigs or a small tour are already in the works?
Yes, we’re playing a release show in Berlin in early April, and a few other performances are already being planned for early summer. However, our biggest project as a band isn't coming until the end of summer—though, unfortunately, I can't reveal any more details just yet.
Translated from: https://crazewire.de/oktobernatt-coordinates/
