A few years ago, you couldn’t go anywhere in the metal world without hearing the name, Orbit Culture. I got to a point where I thought, I don’t remember ever having the same band name be so hyped and talked about, and thankfully, also deliver for me personally. Since then, the next phenomenon has been Sleep Token, and sorry folks, but I just don’t get that one. Orbit Culture has a big diversity from track to track; you don’t know what you are going to hear minute to minute, but you do know you are going to most likely enjoy it. Death Above Life is another incredible representation of this and is an exploration of emotions, compositions, and everything in between. This album will be released on October 3rd, 2025, through Century Media Records.
Orbit Culture began in 2013 in Sweden (of course, my favorite country for metal bands) and has paved an incredible road. Niklas Karlsson (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Richard Hansson (lead guitar), Fredrik Lennaartsson (bass), and Christopher Wallerstedt (drums) are the musicians behind the music and have created an extraordinary album in Death Before Life. The song, “The Storm” has a super catchy guitar chugging riff and some glorious harsh vocals. I find myself playing it in my mind day to day. “The Path I Walk” has become a track that really overwhelms my emotions in the best way; it gives me the sensation of my heart in my throat and some very intense soulful stirrings. Karlsson showcases his clean vocals here while it echoes in the background. It cascades in soundscapes and takes you on a sorrowful journey with acoustic guitars and sentimental sounds. It is a beautiful and highly emotional song and an intense way to end this album. Death Above Life is an expedition of twists and turns and displays some amazing music.
Niklas sat down with Metal Nation to discuss this release as well as many other topics. (If you are viewing from your phone, please scroll to the bottom of the page and click “View Desktop Version” to gain video and interview access).