Gaupa is a Swedish band described as “progressive stoner rock with doom, folk and
psychedelic rock influences”. At first that’s a lot to digest, however once you sit down and
listen to their music and really take it in, it all comes together. Heavy got to chance to
interview lead singer Emma Näslund and guitarist Daniel Nygren to chat about their new
album ‘MYRIAD’ which was released recently on the 18 th of November.
After making sure I got the pronunciation of “MYRIAD” correct – we got stuck into talking
about their new album and what has led them to this chapter of their journey. I was curious
to know how they started and what influences are at play behind their music, and I really
appreciated their creativity and openness answering my questions. Often I found myself
thinking, “Shit, I’m glad I asked that. What an amazing/ unexpected answer”.
It's been a slow burner starting out for Gaupa. Covid did the Covid thing and cancelled
shows left right and centre, making it near on impossible to play for anyone. I’m excited to
see what happens with the realise of their new album and the chance to perform for fans.
When questioned about where they want to see Gaupa going in the future, their answer
was simply, “We just want everyone in the band to be happy and have lots of fun while we
create together”. That response made me immediately want to see these guys succeed.
Gaupa strike me as a very organic and creative band that isn’t doing it for anyone else but
themselves. I always appreciate that approach because that’s when you get the best music
that’s straight from the heart and not accommodating what you ‘think’ people want.
‘MYRIAD’ is best turned up full blast so you can really enjoy Emma’s beautiful and haunting
vocals, perfectly accompanied by the band to create a whole experience for you. Its very
emotion driven music and these sweet Swede’s sure know how to write a song and rock the
fuck out. If you like your stoner rock with a touch of doom and psychedelic rock – this
album is for you, sink your teeth into ‘MYRIAD’.
Gaupa have plans to tour Europe in May 2023 for any of our readers over that side of the
world, get out there and support them! Hopefully that means they will get the chance to
come to Australia soon and bring their music to our shores for us to enjoy.
Have a listen to the interview in its’ entirety below. There is plenty of laughs and some great
stories told. I have to say that I really enjoyed getting to know Emma and Daniel, we
managed to cover heaps of interesting topics. I certainly learnt a lot about the world of
Gaupa.
Now it’s your turn to have a peek inside, enjoy!