In an extraordinary blend of cultures and sounds, Elephant Run emerges as a compelling musical force born from the unlikely meeting of Swedish artist Amanda Wahlström Plantin and Brazilian drummer Ladislau Kardos at a São Paulo festival in 2014. This serendipitous encounter soon expanded with the talents of guitarist Fernando Coelho and bassist-producer Renato Cortez, forming a quartet with a sound as unique as their diverse backgrounds. Their music intertwines the reflective nature of Nordic melodies with the experimental edge of São Paulo’s rock scene, a fusion they aptly dub “Nordic Tropical.” The result is a captivating mix of haunting vocals, layered instrumentation, and intricate rhythms that embody a vibrant cross-cultural dialogue.
After a period of collaboration, the band faced a hiatus when Amanda returned to Sweden in 2018. What was expected to be a brief pause extended due to global circumstances and the challenge of distance. However, creativity persisted beneath the surface. Amanda’s return to Brazil in 2022 reignited their collective energy, leading to a heartfelt reunion and the revival of previously unfinished compositions. This revival culminated in the recording of their latest album, “Leftover Land,” over an intense five-day session at Mato Records Studio in São Lourenço, Minas Gerais, capturing the essence of their renewed artistic drive.
“Leftover Land” vividly showcases Elephant Run’s eclectic identity. Amanda’s ethereal voice weaves through Fernando’s textured guitar work, Ladislau’s fluid and dynamic drumming, and Renato’s rhythmic basslines paired with sharp production. The album transcends being just a set of tracks; it unfolds as an immersive auditory experience. Drawing inspiration from varied sources like Björk, PJ Harvey, Os Mutantes, and Radiohead, the band explores themes reflecting the complexities of contemporary existence. The album’s title mirrors the fragmented yet beautiful chaos of modern life and honors their creative transformation of long-neglected ideas.
Leftover Land Album Track List:
Hanoi:
The album opens with “Hanoi,” a track that envelops listeners in a delicate yet suspenseful atmosphere. Vintage guitar tones and warm organ layers evoke a nostalgic, psychedelic aura, setting a mysterious and intimate stage. Amanda’s vocal delivery stands out, combining clarity and emotional depth atop sparse instrumentation. As the song unfolds, rhythmic and instrumental layers swell, culminating in a crescendo that balances wild energy with precise control. This track introduces Elephant Run’s signature “Nordic Tropical” sound—a blend of cinematic scope and personal storytelling.
We Are Heroes:
A standout piece as the fourth track, “We Are Heroes” unfolds like a slow-burning dreamscape. Beginning with subtle guitar melodies and ambient textures, Amanda’s tender and intense vocals guide the listener through nine minutes of meditative evolution. The arrangement gradually builds, layering jazzy percussion, shimmering guitars, and expressive vocals that rise into a powerful, human affirmation. This song, revisited and refined over years, meditates on the dual nature of human experience—embracing both beauty and struggle with raw honesty and emotional depth.
Pega Mal:
Injecting a playful energy, “Pega Mal” shifts the album’s mood with its lively, unpolished charm. The track features male vocals delivered with a deliberately casual swagger, punctuated by spontaneous, humorous moments that reveal the band’s lighter side. Beneath this relaxed veneer lies a tightly woven groove where percussion and jagged guitars create a dynamic balance. The song’s free-spirited vibe serves as a refreshing contrast within the album, highlighting Elephant Run’s versatility and willingness to embrace spontaneity and humor alongside their more introspective work.
Utsålt:
Closing the album, “Utsålt” immerses the listener in a serene, meditative soundscape. Opening with a deep bass rumble and Amanda’s soft, almost whispered vocals, the track creates a spacious, reflective atmosphere. Ambient guitars, synth drones, and subtle percussion layer together with careful restraint, crafting a sonic environment that feels suspended in time. Rather than resolving tension, the composition embraces ambiguity and contemplation, offering a thoughtful conclusion to the album’s emotional journey. This finale underscores Elephant Run’s skill in channeling vulnerability through nuanced sound.
The production process for “Leftover Land” marries meticulous craftsmanship with organic authenticity. Live recordings of drums, guitars, bass, and piano at Mato Records capture the raw energy of the band’s performance. Additional layers—vocals, solos, synthesizers—were carefully added, with Amanda completing final vocal tracks back in Sweden. This transcontinental collaboration highlights Elephant Run’s adaptability and commitment to maintaining artistic integrity despite geographical challenges.
Listening to “Leftover Land” is an invitation to journey through Elephant Run’s world—a place where past ideas find new life, distance fuels creativity, and contrasting cultures fuse into innovative soundscapes. The album radiates sincere emotion, capturing both fragility and strength. It stands as a testament to the band’s enduring passion for music and their resilience through uncertainty. More than a collection of songs, “Leftover Land” is a celebration of rebirth, perseverance, and the profound power of musical connection. Don’t miss out—explore this remarkable album today!
For further details, visit Elephant Run.
