One of the most compelling, genre-bending duos, Jotunn (featuring members of Imbroglio and Gainsayer), have returned with their new album, entitled Macaria. Released independently and out now via digital download, the six new tracks that comprise Jotunn’s sophomore release traverse blackened death metal, doom and sludge, while exploring some unconventional and progressive elements. The end result is crushingly heavy and viscerally intense, yet hauntingly captivating and brooding.

Dayton, OH's Jotunn features the core duo of Freya Reeves (vocals, bass) and Darrell J. Gilbert Jr. (guitar, backing vocals, programming). The follow-up to their debut, Huldra, refines their approach, distilling the most potent aspects of their sound. The album maintains all of the aggressive and abrasive tones of the previous release while introducing more melodic components and diverse experimental dynamics. Reeves comments, “Our riffs have become more complex and melodic, evoking more emotion than the previous. I have also worked on a larger vocal range, seeking to find out what my voice is capable of.”

For Macaria, both the writing and recording process came together organically, resulting in an incredibly raw album that captures the openness and sincerity of Jotunn. Reeves explains, “A lot of what we do is in the moment... Recording is unpredictable. Even if I have an idea in mind, once the record button is clicked, I won't truly know what will come out.” Gilbert elaborates, “We had beautiful moments, and memories during the recording of the vocals that I will never forget. Especially on the closing track where Freya allowed me to do the vocals I envisioned for them. It really ties both of our personalities together and our love of friendship for one another to be there in those moments together. It was really awesome. Couldn't be more proud of her for that.”

Lyrically, Macaria is a glimpse into Reeves' life as a trans woman, offering up her personal perspective in an extremely powerful, thought-provoking way. She says, “This album captured the frustration of living as a trans woman in a society that not only doesn't want me, but actively seeks to eliminate me.” Gilbert comments, “Freya's message overall I believe anyone can relate to. Each song kinda has it's own meaning on this effort. It's just so honest, sincere, and to the core vulnerable on every level that you can be in this kind of music.”

Gilbert elaborates on Jotunn's empowering overall concept, “We talk about very uncomfortable topics that shouldn't be uncomfortable... I want this album to feel like a shield for anyone who leads an alternative lifestyle that can be frowned upon in society. The topics that we cover very much need to be more in the light so more people can understand that they aren't alone, that we are out here, and the music will always be here for them to understand them for exactly who they are.” Reeves says, “For me, it's saying to the world, I am who I am, and I am human. Transgender people just want to live our lives in peace. I've spent my life hiding in fear of what others might think or do if I allowed my true self to flourish, and I, along with many others, are tired of it. We have our place in the world, and it's time that we claim it.”