Mortemia, Morten Veland’s gothic metal project, releases the tenth entry in The Cover Collab Sessions — a powerful reinterpretation of “California Dreamin’”, featuring three distinguished guest vocalists: Helle Bohdanova (Ignea), Caterina Nix (Somberwind, Chaos Magic) and Karmen Klinc (Venus 5, Rock Partyzani, ex-Hellcats).
Veland describes the collaboration as a milestone: “It’s a privilege to work with Helle, Caterina and Karmen. Caterina returns after our earlier collaboration on ‘Adrenalize’, while Helle and Karmen are singers I’ve admired for years. Together we’ve shaped a really cool metal version of this iconic track. I’m truly thankful to have them onboard. The single arrives on all digital platforms on 10 July 2026. This is our rendition of The Mamas And The Papas timeless' classic 'California Dreamin'”
Bohdanova reflects on rediscovering the classic: “For me, ‘California Dreamin’’ always symbolised carefree escape. When Morten mentioned its melancholy, the song opened up in a new way. I love how our voices blend — it creates a dimension no single voice can achieve. Sharing this with Cati and Karmen was pure magic.”
Nix highlights the emotional depth of the reinterpretation: “Reimagining such a timeless song is no small task. The longing of the original remains, but now with a heavier, modern edge. Working with Morten, Helle and Karmen was inspiring, and I’m proud of how our voices complement each other while keeping their individuality.”
Klinc adds: “Being invited to join Mortemia is a real honour. Giving this classic a fresh metal identity was an incredible experience, and sharing it with Helle and Cati makes it even more special. I can’t wait for listeners to hear what we created together.”
Mortemia’s collaborative format began during the early Covid‑19 pandemic with The Pandemic Pandemonium Sessions, followed by The Covid Aftermath Sessions, both built around guest vocalists. The Cover Collab Sessions continues this concept — an album of reimagined classics, rearranged and performed in Mortemia’s unmistakable style. Link
Norway's artist Mortiis has shared a beautiful three‑track digital EP, inspired by and named after the song "Farewell Romero" from his latest record Ghosts Of Europa, released in June...
Irish synth‑pop/darkwave duo mischa and the bear return with a fierce new single, “Evil” — the lead track from their forthcoming EP True Colours, set to arrive in August. Blending...
Greek dark/gothic/atmospheric metal ensemble Elysion continue to reveal the emotional core of their forthcoming studio album Identity, due for release on 16 October via Massacre Records.
UK post-punk/gothic horror unit The Exceptional Mr Hyde introduce their latest single, "Ship Of Sorrow". Accompanied by an equally cinematic music video, the track explores themes of...
"When I make a song, I know I could do it better, but I'm happy with it. It doesn't have to be perfect, and I like it when it's not. That's why I can make it that way." - Rapha Hell
"I always wanted to express my emotions with my music, and this is what I do. And I think true music lovers feel when music is coming from the heart." - Tilo Wolff
"You know, the music and songs just come, and we don't distance ourselves from the music that comes out." - Jyrki 69
"We try to support our army as much as possible since we also have friends on the frontline." - Helle Bohdanova
