"Veni Vidi Vici - what's left to win?"
Time: Idus Martiae/The Ides of March - March 15, 44 B.C.
Place: Rome
Narrative: Gaius Julius Caesar
Hot on the heels of his press-acclaimed eponymous debut album of original work, Vargen has returned with a new single.
Infused with vintage charm and heartfelt romance, ‘CAESAR’ transports listeners to a bygone era while exploring timeless narrative themes. Crafted upon a folk rock foundation, the songwriter skilfully blends driving rhythms and layers of sunlit melodies, creating a captivating soundscape that resonates with traditional sensibilities. Through a poignant vocal performance, Vargen masterfully weaves a tale inspired by the legendary figure of Gaius Julius Caesar, immersing listeners in a rich tapestry of sound and emotion.
Vargen comments, ”CAESAR tells a story filled with symbolism and introspection and delves into themes of power, betrayal, and self-awareness, exploring the complexities of relationships and personal struggles. I tried to express what could have been going on inside this historical icon of tyranny.”
Over the recent years the Swedish singer-songwriter and Bob Dylan interpreter Vargen, has carved a reputation for infusing his music with mystery and raw emotions. Concealed beneath the moniker is the skill of Reine Johansson, whose rock and punk origins have blossomed into a talent for deeply connected emotional songwriting. After releasing his debut album of original work, a self-titled project promoted by a concert video, Vargen gained widespread attention from the international indie press, with coverage from Earmilk, Vents, The Big Takeover and more.
Vargen shares the inspiration behind his songs, ”Our minds associate, connect and draw conclusions. It was when people, times, places – real or imagined – collide or combine that I found inspiration for many of the songs.” He continues, ”I don’t really know how it happens. It might be a dream that lingers. It might be a memory or feeling that changes in an instant if put in a new light. Sometimes it’s just plain fiction.”
Press text - March 15, 2024
lyrics
CAESAR
Eyes like nails
through the sky
Twisted n’ turned
then rolled the dice
Took no prisoners
Left no one but the moon to talk
King of the gutters
on the Cavemen walk
Last one standing
to write the chronicles
‘bout the serpent, the sea, the devil
and all his obstacles
Don’t forget your dreams
the ones with all the signs
Don’t say a word ‘bout the ones
shot from behind
Break down
is not a noun
‘Tis in your actions
to be found
In my dark corrections
from under your spell
Breakdown, my baby,
is living hell
Veni vidi vici
What’s left to win?
I recognized the snake mark
on your skin
As the carpet unveiled
and you flashed ‘fore my eyes
One less for your brother, one more for us rest
to idolize
I ain’t sayin’
I’m easy to love
I know I don’t even have
an honest purpose to love
I know that your tolerance
is the only reason why
The cracks of my empire don’t
break open wide
Last night
I dreamt of a wolf so sad
My friends they pierced my cloak
till they thought we was dead
Now I hitch-hike to loneliness
wolf grinned at my brother Jack’s
Give the paw to civilization as I wear it
on my blooded back
As I fell
from the 97th floor
The crowd dwelled, split,
cried out for more
It’s lonely at the top, ma,
but hey, it’s the path we choose
Tonight we fall alone but we’ll be together soon,
baby, as statues
Haha!
credits
released March 15, 2024
First single from upcoming album Citizen Wolf (release date TBA).
Written by Reine Johansson.(c) (p) 2024 Vargen Music
Produced, mixed and mastered by Fredrik Larnemo, Recordia, Varberg, Sweden.
Musicians:
Reine Johansson: vocal; Andreas Alm: acoustic guitar; Per Bengtsson: electric guitar; Dag Hallberg: keys; Christian Kullberg: bass; Klas Assarsson: drums; Fredrik Larnemo: additional arrangements
Over the recent years the Swedish singer-songwriter and Bob Dylan interpreter Vargen, has carved a reputation for infusing
his music with mystery and raw emotions. After releasing his debut album of original work, a self-titled project promoted by a concert video, Vargen gained widespread attention from the international indie press, with coverage from Earmilk, Vents, The Big Takeover and more....more
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