

Svalbard, the acclaimed band, has revealed their poignant composition titled ‘How To Swim Down,’ the third single from their upcoming studio album, ‘The Weight Of The Mask,’ set for release on October 6th. This track marks a unique and emotionally resonant departure from their previous work, featuring ethereal violin melodies by Liam Phelan and a deeply moving vocal performance by Serena Cherry.
Accompanying the track is a beautifully crafted animated video by Boy Tillkens. The animation tenderly portrays the fragility and strength within human existence, encapsulating the song’s profound emotional essence.
Serena Cherry of Svalbard shared her insights on the song:
“This track delves into the exquisite pain and poignant beauty of unrequited love. It’s perhaps the saddest, most heart-rending song we’ve ever composed. Lyrically, the verses touch on the hidden adoration, while the chorus reveals the acceptance of silently loving someone from a distance.

The music video for ‘How To Swim Down’ evokes such poignant emotions in me that I can’t help but cry. Boy has captured the bittersweet sentiment of the song with incredible delicacy, making the animation an exceptionally moving piece.
Musically, ‘How To Swim Down’ takes us into uncharted territory, with Liam’s addition of mournful violin layers, a first in Svalbard’s history! It’s thrilling to feature new instruments. Another unique aspect is that the song solely showcases clean vocals, without any screams. The delivery of these lyrics aims to emulate whispering a secret to someone while they sleep. This vocal style represents a lonely form of communication, like singing to oneself in an empty house. It’s a private, selfless love song, where only the listener is privy to my heartache.”
Pre-Order ‘The Weight Of The Mask’ Album + Listen to ‘How To Swim Down’ HERE
Watch the Heartfelt ‘How To Swim Down’ Video HERE
Stream previous singles ‘Faking It‘ HERE and ‘Eternal Spirits‘ HERE
Watch the ‘Faking It‘ video HERE
Watch the ‘Eternal Spirits‘ video HERE
Svalbard’s commitment to their music lies in providing solace during times of darkness. ‘The Weight Of The Mask’ boldly lays bare experiences of mental health and depression, aiming to destigmatize these crucial subjects.

‘The Weight Of The Mask’ – Tracklist:
- Faking It
- Eternal Spirits
- Defiance
- November
- Lights Out
- How To Swim Down
- Be My Tomb
- Pillar In The Sand
- To Wilt Beneath The Weight
Svalbard recently concluded a comprehensive tour, supporting renowned post-metal giants Cult Of Luna and Russian Circles. The band is presently captivating audiences across European summer festivals, including appearances at Inferno (Norway), Hellfest (France), With Full Force (Germany), 2000Trees, and Portals (UK).
Following this, Svalbard will embark on a six-show headline tour in October across mainland Europe, followed by a performance at the Cult Of Luna curated event, Beyond The Redshift, in London, and a headline show at The Key Club in Leeds.

Svalbard comprises:
- Serena Cherry: Vocals/Guitar
- Liam Phelan: Vocals/Guitar
- Mark Lilley: Drums
- Matt Francis: Bass
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