Posts Tagged ‘noir’

And so they shall return: Port Noir are starting the year not just with their newest single “Noir”, released today, but the band has also announced their 5th album “The Dark We Keep”, to be released May 15th, 2026, via InsideOutMusic. The newest record by the Swedish prog band will include 11 tracks, delivering their signature blend of alternative metal with progressive influences – creating a captivating journey told by powerful arrangements and pure emotions.

‘Noir’ offers a further glimpse of what people can expect of the band’s newest record, being one of the heaviest songs Port Noir have ever released while keeping it true to their dark atmospheric nature and raw emotionality. 

The band comments on the new single:

"’Noir’ taps into the dark and raw energy that signifies the vibe of the new album. We wanted to create something that relentlessly keeps building, like an overwhelming void of light that won’t give in. It’s a lot heavier than anything we’ve released to date, yet there is a sense of sentimentality and solace that guides you through the storm that is ‘Noir’. Lyrically it takes you through a seemingly endless night that bends you to its will. Where bliss and despair make you grasp at anything to get through.”

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PN - Promo 3 (Noir) Horizontal

Photo credit: Björn Glasare

Christopher Nosnibor

The debut single from Nottingham band KEE. is a rare beast – it does something different. Sure, they’re an electro act who’ve been described as ‘Portishead on steroids’, but there’s a whole lot going on here. Yes, there’s a noirish aspect to the sound, and a haunting female vocal which has undeniable shades of Beth Gibbons about it. It’s also muted, low key, with something of a vintage analogue feel. But then there’s some twanging guitar soaked in reverb and it’s more desert rock than country, and suddenly, as if from nowhere, an urgent drum ‘n’ bass beat pumps in, jittery, frantic, like a fibrillating heart, an anxiety attack arising inexplicably in a moment of tranquillity.

The accompanying video – shot in part artful black and white, naturally, the rest blurry – captures and enhances the tense, dark atmosphere.

The groove builds as the track progresses, but so does the tension, and the abrupt finish seals it. It’s exciting, and promising, and I want more.

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KEE. Promo shot