A Soft Touch On Grey Aura Mastermind Ruben Wijlacker's IJdelheid

Though musician Ruben Wijlacker is primarily known for his work as one fourth of Dutch avant-gardists Grey Aura, this multi-instrumentalist's creativity isn't bound by the confines of black metal's sphere. With his dark folk project IJdelheid, Wijlacker's penchant for the tender and emotive–elements touched upon in the latest Grey Aura album (but to a greater extent)–find a stronger footing here. On the project's upcoming sophomore album Alas, I Am Morbid!, Wijlacker's delicate touch and softly sung voice act as a foil to Grey Aura's colorful extravagance. As the debut single "Look At All We Lost!" grows, Wijlacker's ear for texture and crescendo-based songwriting is strong and resolute, in stark contrast to the music's own elegant and wispy sound. Listen to "Look At All We Lost!" ahead of Alas, I Am Morbid!'s September 1st release below.