12 March 2021 - 0 Comments

This latest release has seen Mt Eden (aka Jesse Cooper) pair up with NZ director Jason Bock, in order to create not only a banger of a single, but a visual feast in the form of a video backdrop, to stand alongside it.

As the product of a chance meeting between two creatives in New York, the story behind Cruel was born as a result of Jason’s fascination with the artwork for Mt Eden’s 2009 viral hit Sierra Leone. The result; a single, an extended play video and an overall project which embodies the true spirit of a conceptual release.

The story which inspired this release has its origins steeped deep in Indonesian mythology. As a tribute to Rangda the demon queen, the video itself was filmed on location in Bali and starred locals who had never acted or appeared on film before. A fact made doubly impressive, considering their seemingly natural ability to connect with the viewer and the degree of emotion, authenticity and passion which they are able to effortlessly convey.

Staying true to Mt Eden’s dub roots, Cruel delivers on its potential and has emerged a powerful, downbeat and unbelievably catchy track. Not only is this a strong commercial release, yet it serves as continued proof as to why Mt Eden has managed to secure a permanent spot in so many bass enthusiasts' hearts.

On writing the track, Jesse states “The feelings I had making this song, was a reflection of some tough moments I had in New York. I was struggling with my mental health and creating this song really helped me process and release some of the things I was feeling.

I couldn't sleep because I had to get this idea down. When I first started writing the song I was heavily inspired by the artist Lorn - Acid Rain. which had this dark but melancholic twist to it. I had spent hours, if not weeks making this song to fit into a cinematic style in our small apartment in Brooklyn. As the song developed a solid structure, we got in touch with Sophie Hintez (Vocalist) and Kayle who helped with producing the vocals and creative input.

Hearing the track with vocals had shocked me, it really took the song to a whole nother level which I was so happy about.”

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