Posted by VIRAK are taking a trip down memory lane as they re-release their debut album ‘Threads’ via Forward Backwards Recording. Available in vinyl and digital formats for the first time, the work takes us back to 2008. Recorded and produced in Copenhagen, the project ventured outwards and formed a life of its own, offering a refreshing take on post-rock, lowcore and 70s acid rock. It carries the influence of Mogwai, Spiritualized and Low, offering a stark snapshot to its nostalgia-driven listener.
The re-release is especially poignant as it honours frontman Martin Ejlertsen who passed away from ALS on May 23rd at the age of 49. The project echoes the frontman’s tender relationship with the project, illustrating the early stages of his decade-spanning career. The release follows Ejlertsen’s own awareness that this project, a time capsule of its own, would likely be his final recorded work.
Before his death, Ejlertsen shared:
“I probably only have a few months left to live, so it’s about making the best of the last. Having this album project has given me some light in an otherwise completely dark and very depressing time.”
“I am very happy and proud… that our music is now being released in formats it has deserved. In this way, I leave behind my music, which can live on—for the joy of my loved ones and hopefully also others, when I am soon no longer in this world. Thank you for listening.”
VIRAK were active between 2002-2009 and consisted in its formative years of Martin Ejlertsen (vocals, guitar and keys), Christian Kühne (bass and keys) and Peter Dyring Olsen (drums).
Threads’ lead single, ‘Where It All Begins’, is a gut-wrenching ode to the end of something that could have been. Off-kilter guitar motifs paired with VIRAK’s hauntingly beautiful vocal performance make for a stand-out moment on the album.
‘Threads’ featured guest musicians from Under Byen, Slaraffenland, Amber, and a gospel choir. It was mixed in London at Alchemy Studio by Kenny Jones (Sophia, Bauhaus/The Smiths), while the 2026 edition is newly mastered in the US by Grammy-nominated engineer JJ Golden (Black Pumas).