Music and mental health are two subjects that are increasingly coming together in today's society; whether through prevention or the experience of emotion as can be found in art in general. And that's what Scarlean is offering us with this October 25 release entitled 'Tainted by Ink of Fears': an emotional, introspective experience at the heart of a fear we can all recognize.
Scarlean: when French metal asserts itself
This isn't the first time we've mentioned Scarlean. This French metal band has made its mark, whether through the power of their music or their live performances. In 2023, they took to the Hellfest mainstage just before Iron Maiden. However, since the release of their album Silence in September 2022, Scarlean had kept a low profile. A wait worth waiting for, and we'll explain why.
'Tainted by Ink of Fears': Scarlean push their boundaries while retaining their identity
We're used to Scarlean's dark ambience and strong themes. Here, we have a sound that grips us from the very first notes, leading us almost to anguish, an emotion perfectly translated by an almost disquieting tempo and a pre-chorus guitar that gives us this impression of going round in circles like an omnipresent anxiety. The singer's voice perfectly embodies these oscillations between moments of calm and doubt, and sometimes even a rage born of this fear. Sometimes calm, sometimes intense, his voice powerfully conveys Scarlean's message.
However, during the choruses, we feel this battle, this desire to get out, this desire for everything to stop. The lyrics amplify this struggle, notably with lines like “But I rise from the ashes, break through the chains” - a phrase that embodies the hope of overcoming the ordeal, though later tinged with despair “tainted by ink of fears.”
This leads listeners to question their own fears, their own anxieties and the way they deal with them. 'Tainted by Ink Of Fears' focuses on the fear of losing those we love, a fear that is very often felt in today's society. And while the music and video depict a death, the loss of a loved one can be perceived in other ways: a move, a break-up... This open interpretation encourages personal reflection and an introspective journey, an approach often found in the visual arts.
The music video was produced by CANA Prod, a team we've come to expect from Scarlean and their videos. It's a team they're not about to let down, regarding the work they've done; the video has the same dark atmosphere and mood as the band's music. CANA Prod has managed to adapt to Scarlean's world, but also to play with it, adding strong, visually striking elements to the band's universe.
All in all, Scarlean offer us a powerful new track in keeping with their image. 'Tainted by Ink of Fears' is an emotional and artistic experience not to be missed, and perhaps even an introduction to a new album?
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