Creating good sound is one thing that a musician must master to become successful, but being able to create compelling music, with catchy sound and powerful message is entirely a different story. That would cement your name in the industry – that is Terje Gravdal, a Norwegian Musician who has mastered all these in his artistry. He has this uncanny ability to translate experience into fascinating sound which is very evident in his music. “The Hostage”, his latest EP released on March 29, 2024, has showcased this skill yet again as this explores a particularly traumatic yet relatable reality to some of us – the nature of being a hostage.
“The Hostage” is something personal. It originated from Gravdal’s experience and personal observation of the world around him. True to the themes of this EP, the songs analyze different aspects of being a hostage, whether figuratively or literally. This is a clever way to deliver a message in such a potent and immersive way for the listeners to experience.
The EP opens with the track, “Whiskey-Colored Friend”. This song portrays alcohol as a dangerous companion, “a whiskey-colored friend” who is always going to be there but delivers despair and isolation by the end. It is great music that underscores heavy lyrics, a story of being held captive by the seductive and destructive addiction to substance abuse.
“Hostage in My Home” comes next. It is a track that pays respect to Gravdal’s late aunt. This is a deeply moving track that speaks of the suffocating confinement being endured by people who are experiencing domestic abuse. This song speaks about the terrifying reality of always living in fear within one’s own home. This track is very fragile, highlighted by the way the Gravdals sang this song. It is heartbreakingly tender, conveying the silent anguish and strength of the victims to go through it all.
Shifting the tone of the whole listen, here comes “Welcome to Rehab”. Gravdal showcased his ability to craft imagery of rehab to talk about a society that is obsessed with relentless self-improvement, conformity, and obsessing with productivity – which is tiring. The song delivers a great message that somehow the expectations of society towards us can become a form of hostage. Which is definitely true in my opinion. “Get in Line” on the other hand is all about defiance. It is a bold message that expresses subversion to individuals who often dictate how someone should live, the line, “Go left, do right” is just a great point to make.
Now, here’s my personal favorite track, “Growing Up”. It is the last track on this EP and it sure delivered a great message for the youth. As part of this sector, it is great music with an empowering message. It reflects the boundless optimism and energy of youth, and how it somehow comes in with uncertainties which is the reality of life. This song conveys a message that life does not always go as how we want it to happen, yet there’s always hope.
“The Hostage” draws its power from the authenticity of Gravdal’s music. The artist is unflinching in confronting difficult themes such as addiction, societal control, disillusionment, and abuse. This honesty and lack of sugar coating of these issues give this EP a cathartic quality, connecting with anyone who has ever felt trapped by their internal demons, circumstances, or external forces.
Overall, this EP is well-polished. It showcases Gravdal’s prowess as an artist and songwriter. Each track has its own identity making it shine on its own. To know more about his music, follow Terje Gravdal on his social media accounts for updates on his music. Don’t forget to check out his latest release, The Hostage now available on Spotify. Stream and add it to your playlist!
Follow Terje Gravdal
Published in partnership with SubmitHub
About the Author
Born and raised in one of the 7000-ish islands in the Philippines, a self-proclaimed professional fangirl, with a degree in Biology. She probably annoy the people around her so much for not speaking and speaking too much. A frustrated writer, yes!
