HEALTH and Chelsea Wolfe Unleash “MEAN”: A Dark Electro-Industrial Collaboration
HEALTH, known for their hard-hitting electro-industrial sound, and Chelsea Wolfe, celebrated for her haunting vocals, have joined forces to create "MEAN," a track that's already generating buzz. This collaboration, their first ever, blends HEALTH's signature propulsive beats with Wolfe's ethereal voice, resulting in a dark and captivating sonic landscape.
The track, produced by Stint (also behind HEALTH's acclaimed "RAT WARS" LP) and mixed by Lars Stalfors, follows the collaborative template that HEALTH has perfected. "MEAN" features a driving electro-industrial foundation upon which Wolfe layers her signature haunting vocals. Despite the typically tough sound of HEALTH, the song stands out as more somber when taking into account Wolfe's contribution. It offers something unique that neither artist would be able to produce alone.
In an interview with Revolver, Jake Duzsik of HEALTH explained the collaborative process: "The thing that I like the most about these kinds of projects... is that, at least to my ear, it doesn't really sound like what you would [expect] when you would hear HEALTH or Chelsea Wolfe. It ended up being its own thing." Wolfe echoed this sentiment, highlighting the magic that can happen when creative minds come together in the same room. The song was completed in just one day, with both artists contributing ideas for the chorus and verse.
Lyrically, "MEAN" explores the complexities of a relationship marred by eroded feelings and veiled emotions. While both artists hesitate to fully dissect the song's meaning, they hint at themes of projecting inner turmoil onto others. Duzsik elaborates on this, citing that the meaning could be different things for different people, referencing romantic relationships and externalization. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that has soured past the point of repair, haunted by the fading illusion of happiness.
"MEAN" arrives as HEALTH embarks on their "RAT WARS EXPANSION Tour," which include US and European legs between spring and fall. Wolfe is also set to tour, supporting Wardruna in North America this September. While HEALTH won't perform the song without Wolfe present, at least out of respect to the singer, there is talk of a very near performance at the Cruel World Festival.
The track's release arrives after Chelsea Wolfe's acclaimed 2024 album "She Reaches Out to She Reaches Out to She", and HEALTH's recent collaboration with Filter and Chvrches' Lauren Mayberry. Clearly, both artists place value and importance on collaboration, and it seems that audiences do too. They previously participated in the DC Comics Dark Nights: Death Metal album a few years ago, with Tyler Bates. The pair have mentioned how important it is to be in person together when creating music, and are now looking into live performances too.
"MEAN" is a testament to the power of collaboration, showcasing what happens when two distinct artistic visions merge to create something truly unique. Whether you're a long-time fan of HEALTH, Chelsea Wolfe, or simply a lover of dark and innovative music, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression.
What are your thoughts on the new collaboration? Share your perspectives in the comments below!