Simen Mitlid - “Bloodshed”

From his forthcoming album, Norway-based singer-songwriter Simen Mitlid arrives on the blog with “Bloodshed,” a dark and touching folk song that conveys “the sense of numbness and detachment when we try to justify our own actions and those of others, even when we know they’re wrong.”

The track starts us off with some pleasant strums from an acoustic guitar, setting the mood perfectly for the melancholic production. Moments later, Mitlid’s vocal arrives, exquisitely doubled and reminiscent of Elliott Smith– one of the highest praises we can give, as far as we’re concerned. There’s simply nothing like layers of vocals filling up the empty spaces of an arrangement, a technique we wish more artists would utilize, especially in these more heartfelt and sparsely recorded numbers.

Listeners are also bound to make quick comparisons to any number of folk acts from the late ’60s, as “Bloodshed” contains all of the characteristics and vibe of music from that period, while still keeping its feet planted in the present. And at the one-minute point, the song is joined by the most delicate and glorious of vocal harmonies, another prized attribute of ours when it comes to modern folk songs. Some distant droning makes an appearance and acts an ambient pad, widening the soundscape and bringing a slight sense of urgency to the performance.

“Bloodshed” is honest and authentic songwriting, without the hindrance of any digital production or manipulation. It is the kind of song that would translate smoothly to a live setting and we cannot wait to hear more once Mitlid’s album drops.

-HD