Elias Rønnenfelt’s debut solo album, Heavy Glory, is a kaleidoscopic exploration of sound. Known primarily for his work with the restless Danish rockers Iceage, Rønnenfelt’s willingness to experiment has always been evident. However, the album’s eclectic nature may leave some fans yearning for the cohesive energy and direction that characterised his band’s output.
The album is a kaleidoscopic exploration of sound, ranging from raw, lo-fi demos to polished, studio-produced tracks. While refreshing, this diverse soundscape can also feel disjointed and lacking a central theme. One of the album’s highlights is ‘Unarmed,’ a soulful track featuring Rønnenfelt’s expressive vocals and blues-tinged lyrics. The song’s intensity is punctuated by an expertly crafted acoustic guitar solo that bursts forth, adding a layer of emotional depth.
Lyrically, the album explores themes of loss, longing, and the search for meaning, and it’s Rønnenfelt’s introspective and vulnerable songwriting that creates this sense of intimacy with the listener. ‘No One Else’ holds the album’s most picturesque lyrics, as it portrays a profound yearning for someone who is no longer present, grappling with the memory of this person and the emotional impact they continue to have on his life.
Heavy Glory features two stunning covers: ‘No Place to Fall’ by Townes Van Zandt and ‘Sound of Confusion’ (originally titled ‘Walking With Jesus’) by Spacemen 3. These covers are a testament to Rønnenfelt’s influences and the profound impact they have had on his music. Both songs are performed with reverence and respect, capturing the essence of the originals while also adding Rønnenfelt’s unique interpretation.
Rønnenfelt’s influences are evident at times, with ‘Doomsday Childplay’ echoing Nick Cave’s gothic style and ‘Another Round’ taking a leaf out of Primal Scream’s book. While it’s intriguing to see Rønnenfelt acknowledge his musical forebears, he needs to carve out his own distinct sound to avoid being overshadowed by these established artists.
Heavy Glory is an album that evokes a sense of promise, although it falls short of reaching its full potential. Rønnenfelt’s remarkable talent for blending various genres and styles is evident throughout the album, with bold and ambitious tracks that showcase his versatility as a musician. While it may not resonate with all of his fans, the album offers a captivating insight into his artistic evolution.