Goth is the new black

OTTO: MUSICIAN UNPACKS THE DARK SIDE OF LIFE WITH NEW ALBUM

- Hein Kaiser

Nick Cave must have sent Cito Otto and Ross Learmonth a thank you card when they covered The Weeping song four years ago. It was a haunting remake of an already genius-classic that front and centred Otto's Blvd Hvnny goth project; his versatility as an artist is breathtaking.

It was to be another four years until Blvd Hvnny finally released their debut album. It's called IX and is a collection of nine tracks that are darkly immersive, almost meditative goth anthems.

The influences are there: Cave, Joy Division, Bauhaus and even a sprinkling of Sisters of Mercy.

Every moment is a discovery. It helps makes sense of our demons and unpicks the clutter that often cakes our ability to function as emotionally charged humans. That's always been the intent and consequence of goth music. Otto is the archivist and the storyteller.

If music be the food of the soul is Goth the long dark teatime? Ha ha... Goth has to be the deep red wine, an elixir or intoxicant - depending on the time of day...

Without darkness there can be no light Absolutely. So much is revealed in the dark. And, there is a time and place for both dark and light. When there is light, however, I must wear shades.

What role do you want your music to play in the world?