Ernesto & the Basement Gospel – Is It True?

Jonatan Bäckelie, known for his distinctive musical output since the mid-90s, has returned under his latest moniker, Ernesto & the Basement Gospel, with a captivating new release titled “Is It True?” (Release Date: 18th October 2024). For those familiar with Bäckelie’s extensive career, this latest project is another impressive addition to his diverse body of work. Having collaborated with Andreas Saag on the acclaimed Swell Session project and lent his vocals to numerous artists across genres, Bäckelie is once again proving his versatility as both a producer and a vocalist. Under his alias Pinku Vääty, he has also released glitchy, sharp electronic beats, showcasing yet another side of his creative talent.

“Is It True?” offers a rich blend of low-slung beats and intricate musical arrangements, showcasing Bäckelie’s signature angelic vocals that glide effortlessly over the track. It’s a beautifully layered production that feels both modern and timeless, encapsulating the essence of his Ernesto persona. This release is further enhanced by an exciting extended remix package, featuring contributions from label mates Atjazz and Peacey, as well as Swedish duo Dirtytwo. Each remix explores different textures and rhythms, illuminating new dimensions of the original track while maintaining its captivating vocal flow and memorable hook.

Ernesto: A Journey Through Music

Jonatan Bäckelie has long been a transformative figure in the Gothenburg music scene, particularly during the influential Gonkyburg era. Collaborating with fellow Swede Andreas Saag in Swell Session, Bäckelie helped shape a sound that was forward-thinking and genre-defying. Over the last two decades, he has continued to evolve, lending his vocal talents to prominent artists such as Atjazz, Mark de Clive-Lowe, Jori Hulkkonen, Ten Walls, Alex Barck (of Jazzanova), and Hyenah, among others.

In addition to his vocal work, Bäckelie has explored electronic music under several aliases. His Pinku Vääty project delves into sharp, glitchy electronica, while his work as Teologen has captivated Techno audiences. As one half of the duo Solayre with Rafael Cerato, Bäckelie continues to push boundaries, experimenting with sounds that bridge deep, introspective techno and expansive, melodic productions.

Bäckelie’s ability to move seamlessly between genres has cemented his place as a key creative force in the global music scene. His recent project, Subsecular Arts, demonstrates his continuing artistic evolution, allowing him to reflect on early influences while remaining at the cutting edge of contemporary music.

With “Is It True?” and the extensive remix package from collaborators both new and old, Ernesto & the Basement Gospel stands as a testament to Jonatan Bäckelie’s boundless creativity and enduring legacy in music. Whether through his angelic vocal work, his genre-bending productions, or his thoughtful remixes, Bäckelie remains a pivotal figure in the world of electronic and soulful music.