Young Mountain are a 5 piece atmospheric screamo/hardcore band from Gothenburg, Sweden. After a series of successful EP’s and a split with La Petite Mort, the band is due to release their debut album “Lost Tree” on September 5th. Mixed and mastered by the renowned Jack Shirley, “Lost Tree” is 8 tracks of pure emotion and atmosphere. I had the chance to chat with the band about a variety of topics including writing for the full length, how difficult it is to write in a foreign language, and touring plans to support the release. Show these boys some love on Facebook and be sure to pick up “Lost Tree” via one of the numerous links below!
http://pundonorrecords.bandcamp.com
http://daseinrecords.bandcamp.com
In terms of the writing/recording process, what was different going for a full-length as opposed to another EP?
A full-length takes a considerable longer time to create, also theres a lot of more pieces that need to be put together. Some of the songs were created 2 years prior to the studio sessions while some were finished just days before.
We always strive for honest emotion in our songs, that can drain you as a person in so many ways.
I would lie if i said that we didn’t fight amongst ourselves during the process.
What originally brought you all together and made you want to form a band?
Me (Kami) and Joakim played in another band before this one, we left that project and this one was created. Jesper and Jakob, John joined us a few years later.
Do you find it difficult writing lyrics in English when that is not your native language?
English is the second language that you learn over here in Sweden. It’s a mandatory subject in the schools. Also, we don’t use dubbing in movies and tv shows. So it was a pretty natural process.
What are some of the lyrical themes or meanings behind the songs?
When I wrote the lyrics for the “Lost Tree,” I delved into a state of introspection. I felt that it was necessary to process a lot of things that I’ve been pondering on for quite some time. I had many Questions about identity and how different kinds of events and dreams might challenge our sense of self and how we perceive the world. It’s psychology, philosophy, and politics masked in fiction.
What were some of your most listened to albums when writing/recording “Lost Tree”?
Radiohead – A Moon Shaped Pool, Burial – Untrue, Grimes – Art Angels
Overall, who would you say your biggest influences musically are?
Oh tough one.. Burial, Massive Attack, Suis la lune and Envy
Having Jack Shirley mix and master your album must be great. How shocked were you all when you found out he was going to be doing it?
There’s no denying that we were excited about having him working on this record. But it wasn’t that dramatic at all. We just sent Jack an e-mail with some pre-prods and asked him if he wanted to do it, and he said yes. He seems to be a really nice and down to earth guy.
What’s it like having so many great record labels distribute this record and help with promotion?
It’s amazing, no other way to put it.
We feel so honored to work with such passionate people from all over the world.
We love you!
Do you have any plans to tour to help promote the release?
A tour is being planned for October this year. We will reveal more info on the social medias as it approaches.
Do you have anything special you’d like to tell your current or future fan base?
Thank you for all of the support over the years. Keep your eyes open for the release of Lost Tree on September 5th.
