Jouska, the musical project of Marit Othilie Thorvik, today revealed her forthcoming album, How Did I Wind Up Here?, set for release on October 17th through Koke Plate. Crafted between late 2022 and 2024, a period marked by profound uncertainty, this new collection mirrors a significant shift in Thorvik’s life perspective. It is deeply informed by themes of grief, guilt, shame, and emotional detachment, interspersed with fleeting moments of insight and incremental acceptance.
The album’s latest single, ‘Pierced.,’ arrives on the heels of ‘Flower Moon,’ which itself signalled a compelling return for Jouska following her acclaimed 2023 sophomore album, Suddenly My Mind Is Blank. Departing from the more refined electronic textures of her earlier creations, ‘Pierced.’ delves into more delicate and unadorned sonic landscapes. This new track powerfully demonstrates the project’s raw vulnerability while still retaining the melancholic dream pop sensibilities reminiscent of artists such as The Radio Dept., Slowdive, and Beach House.
Thorvik explains,
This one grew out of a shame tied to being seen at all. I’ve always struggled with visibility. Part of me wants to be seen and heard; another part just wants to disappear. Artistry brings that tension to the surface. I often feel like I’m stepping into a role that doesn’t quite fit, exposing parts of myself I’d rather keep hidden. It feels too personal, too raw, and often uncomfortable. This song captures that feeling.
