In the heart of Sweden’s vibrant music scene, Pink Butter—a dynamic quartet of guitarist Oskar Bettinsoli, keyboardist Björn Lehnert, bassist Malte Bergman, and drummer John Bjurström—unveils their debut EP, Can We Go Back, set for release on August 1, 2025, via DeepMatter Records. This soul-stirring project, enriched with collaborations from hip-hop legend T3 of Slum Village and Jermaine Holmes, a vocalist from D’Angelo’s live band, is a masterful fusion of Scandi-jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and soul. With its introspective themes and spontaneous energy, Can We Go Back captures the essence of a world paused at a shadowy crossroads, questioning whether brighter days lie in the past or the future. Available for pre-save and pre-order now, the EP invites listeners to immerse themselves in its evocative soundscape, with the focus track “Lost My Mind” featuring Elma leading the charge.
Can We Go Back is a testament to Pink Butter’s belief in the timeless power of live, unfiltered creation. Recorded live in the studio, the EP channels the raw, organic energy of jazz jam sessions while embracing the modern grooves of hip-hop and soul. “We made our songs by simply playing together live in the studio, giving as much of ourselves as possible to the music,” the band shares. “In an age where digital perfection is easy to achieve, we chose to embrace the human side of music.” This approach infuses the project with a dynamic, almost tangible vitality, echoing the improvisational spirit of influences like J Dilla, D’Angelo, and Robert Glasper. The result is a sound that feels both classic and contemporary, bridging the gap between structured composition and fearless experimentation.
The EP weaves together the musical histories of its four members, creating a bold collective vision that reflects their diverse influences. Each track is a collage of their individual journeys, from Bettinsoli’s intricate guitar work to Lehnert’s atmospheric keys, Bergman’s deep bass grooves, and Bjurström’s propulsive drumming. Collaborations with T3 and Jermaine Holmes add layers of authenticity and depth, grounding the project in the legacy of hip-hop and soul while pushing it into new territory. The focus track, “Lost My Mind” featuring Elma, stands out as a soulful centerpiece, its introspective lyrics and lush instrumentation capturing the EP’s overarching theme of grappling with uncertainty in a turbulent world.
Lyrically, Can We Go Back is a meditation on time and perspective, reflecting on the sensation of being “stuck at a dark station,” unsure of what lies ahead. The EP poses poignant questions about the state of the world, blending nostalgia with a cautious hope for renewal. This introspective Scandi-jazz soundscape is both soothing and provocative, inviting listeners to pause and reflect on their own place in the flow of time. The band’s ability to merge these weighty themes with infectious grooves and spontaneous creativity makes the EP a compelling listen, one that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level.
Released through DeepMatter Records, a London-based independent label known for championing innovative sounds, Can We Go Back is available digitally and on 12” vinyl, catering to both streaming audiences and collectors. Fans can access the EP via the SmartURL link (https://deepmatter.ffm.to/pinkbutterep) and explore press assets, including the title track featuring T3, through DeepMatter’s dedicated platform. The vinyl release underscores Pink Butter’s commitment to the tactile, authentic experience of music, mirroring their emphasis on live performance and raw energy.
Pink Butter’s debut is more than a collection of songs—it’s a vibrant expression of musical chemistry and fearless artistry. As a Swedish collective, they bring a distinctly Scandinavian sensibility to their genre-blending sound, infusing it with a cool, introspective edge that sets them apart. With Can We Go Back, they invite listeners to join them on a journey through time and emotion, where the interplay of jazz freedom and hip-hop soul creates something truly timeless. Whether you’re drawn to the EP’s rich collaborations, its thought-provoking themes, or its irresistible grooves, Pink Butter’s debut is an experience that demands to be felt deeply. Mark August 1, 2025, on your calendar, and prepare to lose yourself in the soulful, spontaneous world of Can We Go Back.
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