Tackling the weighty themes of devotion, revelation, love, and death, Die for Love is the new album from Mohawk Castle.

By Graeme Smith

Die for Love is an album rich with raw and pleading trap mixed with indie rock that’s reminiscent of the midwestern sound of the ’90s and ’00s, especially a personal favourite, Bright Eyes.

There’s an experimental feel to it all, especially in the moody Cold Beat. The almost Bowie-like Deliverance gives us elements of electronica and drone. We also get Postal Service-esque percussion in tracks like Remotely Close.

Crawl to Me is a particularly striking moment, building slowly through a soul-bearing first verse before arriving at an understated crescendo. It leads into the cinematic post-rock of Maniac.

The mix of genres throughout is intriguing and creates a unique sonic palate.

Mohawk Castle is the project of Erik David Hidde, a Los Angeles, USA-based artist. He created Die for Love in his living room across 2023 and 2024, inspired by his personal experiences, including his father’s battle with cancer. “It provided peace,” Hidde says.

I’m glad the album has given him some catharsis, and there’s plenty for us to relate to across its nine tracks. Mohawk Castle is an act that isn’t afraid to go his own way, and it makes for an exciting listen.

Die for Love is out now, available to buy as a digital album on Bandcamp. You can give it a listen below.