Amidst the enchanting but shadowed woods of Sweden, a micro-polis named Tranås conceals hidden gems beneath its surface, including the emotive musical duo, DEGREES (DGRS). Comprising the talents of Mikael Jakobsson and Rickard Folke, this remarkable pair showcases the transformative power of music even in the unlikeliest of places. Their journey commenced in 2001 when chance brought them together in the heart of this quaint town. United by their shared passion for music and perhaps driven by a longing to break free from small-town inertia, their enduring friendship was born. This shared love for music would eventually inspire the formation of DEGREES in September 2008.
DEGREES’ fifth album, the enigmatic “Pt. V,” comes shrouded in a history entwined with the passage of time. Initially recorded in 2012, these sonic narratives were left to gather dust, forgotten by all, as life’s relentless march continued. Then, in 2023, as if awakened from a profound slumber, DEGREES decided to breathe life back into this dormant masterpiece. Collaborating with the German indie label Aenaos Records, the band presented their final creation to the world. “Pt. V” serves as a chronicle of creative resilience, bearing testament to the enduring flame of artistic expression.
The roots of DEGREES’ story stretch deep into the modest town of Tranås, a place where dreams often become entangled in the everyday affairs of small-town life. In 2001, Mikael Jakobsson and Rickard Folke, both inhabitants of this diminutive world, serendipitously crossed paths. Little did they know that this encounter would sow the seeds of a profound friendship. Driven by their shared dreams of musical exploration, their bond deepened. Music became the vessel through which they navigated the complexities of residing in a town where creative pursuits often struggled to flourish.
“Pt. V” stands as DEGREES’ fifth album, an auditory relic forged in the crucible of their creative collaboration. The songs were initially captured in 2012, born from the depths of their shared artistic vision. Yet, life’s myriad distractions and responsibilities took precedence, and this masterpiece lay dormant, forgotten for over a decade.
In 2023, the band made the remarkable decision to resurrect this musical artifact, breathing life back into compositions that had patiently waited in the wings. This revival marks a musical renaissance, brought to fruition through a partnership with Aenaos Records, a German indie label that recognized the profound significance of DEGREES’ work.
“Pt. V” is a testament to DEGREES’ unwavering dedication to their craft. Through this album, they invite listeners to embark on a musical journey that unfolds like chapters of a novel. The passage of time, the interplay of emotions, and the reflection of life’s experiences converge within this sonic masterpiece.
DEGREES’ “Pt. V” is a mirror reflecting the essence of Tranås—a micro-polis concealing stories beneath its surface, stories waiting to be uncovered. The album is a testament to the power of artistic expression and the enduring bond between Mikael Jakobsson and Rickard Folke, who found solace in music amidst the whispers and dramas of their unassuming town.
“Pt. V” transcends its status as a mere musical release; it stands as a testament to the resilience of art and the strength of the bond between friends. These friends, against all odds, followed their passion in the unlikeliest of places. DEGREES’ journey and the resurrection of their music serve as a poignant reminder that creativity knows no boundaries. Inspiration can emerge from even the most unexpected sources, and music, with its power to transcend time, remains a universal language. “Pt. V” is more than an album; it is a sonic narrative awaiting rediscovery by those who appreciate the enduring spirit of art.
Connect with DEGREES on
English