5 Reasons You Should Listen To Akaba's New Album Wither Without
Swedish trio Akaba have returned with their second album, Wither Without, a nine-track release via Now Listen that takes their songwriting in new directions. Following their debut, The Rust Within, the band have developed their approach while keeping the focus on strong songwriting and personal lyrics. Here are 5 reasons to give the new album a listen.
1. It tells a story many people will recognise
At the heart of Wither Without is the breakdown of a relationship and the difficult experiences that follow. The songs cover everything from attempts to make things work to regret, loss and the challenge of accepting that things have changed. These are familiar subjects, but the album looks at them from several perspectives rather than focusing on just one part of the experience.
2. The lyrics give the album a personal touch
Åsa Carild wrote all the lyrics, bringing a consistent voice to the record. Her writing explores the uncertainty that comes with difficult decisions, particularly when the future is still unclear. On focus track "Go North", thoughts of leaving, finding another home and starting a different life come together in a song about the possibility of taking a new direction.
3. Akaba have broadened their musical approach
Anyone familiar with The Rust Within will notice a change in the band's sound. Wither Without makes greater use of synthesisers and programmed rhythms, adding new elements to the guitars and drums. Mattias Olsson's production brings these sounds together, giving Akaba more ways to shape their songs and develop their arrangements.
4. The album brings together different musical backgrounds
Akaba's members each have experience from other projects. Carild previously worked with Pineforest Crunch, Tobias Ljungkvist played with Reminder, and Olsson is known for his work with Änglagård and other groups. Their combined experience makes for an interesting musical partnership, with all three contributing to the music on Wither Without.
5. It leaves room for a more hopeful ending
Although much of the album deals with difficult experiences, it does not remain focused on loss. The closing track, "Northern Lights", introduces the possibility of finding a way forward. After spending the album exploring the challenges of letting go, this final perspective gives the record a sense of direction without pretending that everything can be resolved overnight.
Wither Without is a worthwhile listen for anyone who enjoys albums with personal songwriting, carefully developed arrangements and a clear theme running through the music. It gives Akaba an opportunity to explore new ideas while continuing to build on the work they began with their debut. With nine tracks and plenty to consider along the way, it is a welcome return from the Swedish band.
