Rosenthal Talks Forthcoming New Album, New Single And More

Rosenthal has released his new track ‘Afraid of Stairs,’ ahead of his debut album ‘Luna,’ out later this year. He chatted to us about his new music and more:

What is your earliest musical memory?

My earliest musical memory is probably listening to my mother singing lullabies to me just before bedtime. There is something both comforting and melancholic about those melodies that still holds a special place with me. I guess I knew from an early age that I was drawn to music with a sad or sensitive undertone – a bit like my own music, I suppose.

When did you begin songwriting?

I started out as a drummer in local bands while attending high school and later studying to become a journalist. Two of those bands enjoyed moderate success, but after we broke up, I was curious to test my own abilities as a songwriter. I taught myself how to play guitar and recorded the first demos for what would become Rosenthal. I was in my mid-20s then, so I was probably a “late bloomer” in terms of discovering my “talent” for songwriting.

You have your new album ‘Luna’ released on 8th May 2026. How did you want to approach the making of the album?

The overall idea was to give the album a raw, organic feel, and the majority of the songs were recorded live over a weekend with two good friends. I then spent a long time adding vocals, extra guitars, and synthesizers to the songs. I guess I didn’t fully anticipate how big a process it was to record an album while being in charge of most things yourself. But I’m very proud of the finished result.

Where did you record the album and who produced it?

The album was recorded at Feedback Studio in Aarhus, Denmark, and was produced by me and Magnus Vad, who owns the studio and is a brilliant mixer and engineer.

Which your new album tracks hear you at your a) happiest, b) angriest and c) most reflective?

The track “A Dream” probably captures me at my happiest, picturing a sense of optimism in the lyrics. “Void” is perhaps the “angriest” song sonically, with a slow build-up to a guitar-driven crescendo at the end. And the title track is maybe the most reflective song, looking back at a lost relationship with nostalgia and gratitude.

Does the album’s title have a specific meaning/significance?

I chose “Luna” as the album’s title because I like the various meanings of the word. “Luna” is – as people probably know – the Latin word for “the moon,” but it can also be a female name or short for “lunacy,” a sense of being “moonsick” or emotionally unstable. These are themes that are both present in the lyrics and very familiar to me personally. So, with that in mind, it felt like a fitting title for the record.

Who designed the album artwork?

The artwork was created by graphic designer Peter Curzon, who has worked with artists like Pink Floyd, Audioslave, and The Mars Volta. I got in touch with him through my PR agent in the UK. She knew him and introduced him to my music. I really love his visual style – his covers are both beautiful and enigmatic.

Do you have any live dates planned in the UK/Europe in 2026?

I don’t have any live dates confirmed yet, but I definitely hope to play a string of shows to promote the album – hopefully outside of Denmark as well.

One of the tracks is the single ‘Afraid Of Stairs’ which is out now. What was the story/inspiration behind the song?

“Afraid of Stairs” was written as a song of love and comfort for my nephew, who, like me, was a bright but sensitive child. The lyrics essentially say: “The world is a tough place, but I’m here for you.” I recorded the first version of the song in 2013 with a more electronic feel, but I’ve always envisioned it having a raw, organic sound. I feel this new version is one of the strongest tracks on the album and a good indicator of its overall sound.

Who are some of your musical influences? Do you have any recommendations?

I’m definitely inspired by bands from the British alternative rock scene, where acts like The Cure, New Order, My Bloody Valentine, and Cocteau Twins have had a significant impact on me. I like their ability to create beautiful, dreamy soundscapes and immediate melodies at the same time. If I were to recommend an act within that same sphere, it would maybe be the Danish duo 100%WET. They released their debut album last year, and it reminds me a bit of Curve’s legendary “Doppelgänger” album – mixing elements of shoegaze with big electronic beats in a very cool way.

Feature Image Photo Credit: 369 Press

Rosenthal’s new single ‘Afraid of Stairs,’ is out now After Images Danish distribution company Gateway Music (DK).

His debut album ‘Luna’ is scheduled for release on 8th May 2026. 

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