Hymns for the Haunted

Hymns for the Haunted is the third studio album by Swedish recording artist Amanda Jenssen. The song "The Carnival" was used on American Horror Story: Freak Show. Jenssen described the album as both “Voodoo Jazz” and “Jungle Jazz”.

Background and production
After a three-year hiatus since her last album, “Happyland” (2009), Jenssen returns with a fresh perspective. “Happyland” received widespread acclaim, earning her two Swedish Grammis Awards for “Female Artist of the Year” and “Best Composer.” With Hymns for the Haunted, she continues to push artistic boundaries.

Jenssen’s album takes a departure from her previous releases, leaning heavily into a film score aesthetic. “This album sounds much more like a film score,” she explains. “It’s theatrical, weird, surreal, and dangerous.” The cinematic quality of her music has resonated with audiences, drawing comparisons to legendary composers like Ennio Morricone and John Barry.

Jenssen playfully dubs her music as both “Voodoo Jazz” and “Jungle Jazz”. The album seamlessly blends these elements, creating a rich tapestry of sound. “There is no denying the ‘voodoo’ or the ‘jungle’,” Jenssen asserts. “And the ‘jazz’ reference is, without a doubt, also viable.” Her palette includes a wide range of instruments—horns, strings, rock guitars, and even castanets—all harmonizing in a symphony of creativity.

When asked about genre labels, Jenssen challenges conventions. “If you are forced to pigeonhole me into one genre,” she says, “it can only be ‘pop’.” However, her pop defies radio formats and embraces freedom from limitations. Jenssen’s music transcends boundaries, inviting listeners into a world where creativity knows no bounds.

For Hymns for the Haunted, Amanda Jenssen has teamed up with two accomplished songwriters. The album features a blend of soulful melodies and introspective lyrics, showcasing Jenssen’s growth as an artist.

Pär Wiksten, known for his work with the alternative rock band The Wannadies, has been a longtime collaborator with Jenssen. Together, they crafted a significant portion of the album’s tracks. Their synergy brings a mix of horns, strings, piano, bass, drums, and delicate guitar touches to the music.

However, what truly sets this album apart is Jenssen’s newfound partnership with Björn Yttling. Yttling, acclaimed for his work with Peter Bjorn and John and Lykke Li, adds his signature touch to several songs. His fresh perspective injects a unique energy into Jenssen’s sound.

When asked about the album’s evolution, Jenssen shared, “My new album sounds different, but it’s not something I planned. I really needed the time after I stopped touring with ‘Happyland’ to reflect. If I had tried to hasten the process, it would have been like picking unripe fruit. I realized I had to wait until the fruit was ripe. Then I picked it.”