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Alternative emo artist idkraeven has just unveiled an unflinchingly honest and emotional reflection of her life in her new EP, NETHERWATER. As she looks back on the journey she has been on in order to get to where she is today, idkraeven explores some of the darkest chapters of her past, detailing stories of emotional and sexual abuse, relationships and breakups, and the brokenness of the foster care system. Through raw storytelling she doesn’t shy away from the painful realities of her past, revealing her sheer determination for survival, growth, and hope for change. 

The title, NETHERWATER, is a reminder that even though someone may be physically strong, emotional scars can remain buried. Paying homage to the powers of the River Styx and its magical properties, the songwriter shares, “Metaphorically, I feel as though I am sitting amidst the waters of the Styx, physically unscathed and protected, but mentally tormented by the surrounding view of hell. The title encapsulates the dichotomy of feeling physically invincible but mentally damaged.”

The eight-track release includes “BLEED OUT” which delves into the artist's traumatic upbringing with her adoptive parents. idkraeven confides, “I call them out in the first line, asking if they’re satisfied with the havoc they wreaked on my life, after they kicked me out at 17. In this song, I speak about the struggle, pain, and mental torture it’s taken to slowly claw my way up to stability. This song was also made with the intention of holding Christian parents accountable not to cherry-pick the Bible when trying to raise their “good Christian kids.” You can’t hate me for being a bisexual stoner and then turn around and claim that you make a conscious effort to display Jesus’ love to others. Jesus thinks I’m cool as fuck.”

“BLEED OUT” is raw and intense, as her introspective lyrics and melodic rap lines ride over dissonant guitars and trap drums. Her style and sound are cohesive throughout the EP, offering a distinct blend of emotional intensity and atmospheric soundscapes that captivate from start to finish.

Despite its dark themes, the entirety of NETHERWATER is empowering, as idkraeven sheds light on critical issues, showcasing her resilience and channeling pain into art.

Listen to NETHERWATER below: