Swedish artist Ceci Noir infuses a groovy hard rock sound into her music, whilst also retaining a melodic sensibility. Nowhere is this more apparent than in her relatively new release You know We know, which you can also find at the end of this interview! It’s a great track, so don’t miss out!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a new track called You know We know. What can you tell us about the song?
It’s a love story that captures the dynamic magic that unfolds when two people are deeply in love. It delves into the curious, raw emotions that ignite when hearts intertwine. Like a rocking adventure!
How has the reception to You know We know been so far, and where can it be purchased?
I’m pleasantly surprised by the reception of this song compared to my comeback single Away. It has garnered more attention and radio plays, which was unexpected. I believe a groovy and authentic vibe resonates with listeners more. Originally intended as just an album track, I decided to release it anyway, to further build momentum before the album’s launch later this year.
Do you have any more singles planned for the near future?
After this summer, you can expect more releases from my upcoming album, scheduled for later in 2024. However, there may be some surprises along the way. Stay tuned.
Are there any plans to release a full length album or an EP anytime soon?
My second album, Voltage Valleys, is ready for release! Now, it’s up to me to put in the work – putting the plans into action – though that’s the fun part, right? Haha!
Your music has a hard rock sound. What/who are you most influenced by? What have you been listening to recently?
I blend various music styles, drawing inspiration from soulful rock and blues singers, as well as swagger-filled artists across psychedelic rock, alternative rock, and metal genres. Acts like Lola Young, KALEO, Rival Sons, Larkin Poe, Dorothy, Bishop Briggs, Black Sabbath, Cage the Elephant, The Heavy, Evanescence and Rage Against the Machine greatly influence me, particularly appreciating the fusion of hip-hop and blues rock. Additionally, Alicia Keys’ soulful sound and powerful messages resonate deeply with me, alongside other artists who share similar depth and soulfulness, though the list could continue endlessly.
You’re based in Sweden. What is the local music scene like?
I’ve mainly performed at club venues in central Sweden thus far, but there’s much more for me to explore. Sweden Rock Festival is something I’ve heard is a must-experience, and my aim is to play there soon. Despite that, Sweden’s music scene remains vibrant and thriving, at least still surviving – I think.
Have you found it harder to navigate the music industry as a woman?
I’ve noticed that women are consistently underrepresented in various contexts within the music industry. However, there are many individuals and organisations in the Swedish music industry actively addressing these issues.
Do you have anything else exciting coming up over the next few months?
The way I see it, there will be new collaborations along the way that will excite me, and I’d love to share them with you. But for now, it’s all about walking the walk as an independent artist!
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
I would be thrilled to perform at The Great Escape Festival in Brighton. There’s a Swedish showcase scene there called ‘ÅÄÖ.. Sounds Swedish’ that I plan to apply to perform at next year! I’m looking forward to hopefully seeing you there soon! I’m excited about returning to the UK for future shows and collaborations within the UK and international music industry. During my visit to London last year, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a British producer at Tileyard in London on a song that we wrote with Rag’n’Bone Man in mind, but I might release it myself, so keep an eye out for it in the future.
Any last words for the fans?
I hope my music will resonate with you in some way, offering solace or inspiration when needed. Most importantly, I aim for my songs to evoke a sense of comfort and connection, much like how music has been a guiding light for me, aiding in navigating through both joyous and challenging emotions. For me, music is a profound conduit for reaching and understanding these feelings.