Behind Closed Doors’ latest single, “prichitat | stabat filius,” is an extraordinary experience that stands as one of the most thrilling musical moments of 2024. Labeling it as merely a “song” feels reductive, as the multinational instrumental trio has crafted something epic and genre-defying in its ambition and execution.
The trio—Christoph Teuschel on guitars, Fred Jacobsson on bass, and Yuma van Eekelen on drums—has collaborated with a string section comprising Annie Tanberg (cello), Oene van Geel (viola), and Charlotte Basalo Vasquez (violin). The result is a five-and-a-half-minute masterpiece that marries opposing musical forces into a seamless avant-garde fusion. Crushingly heavy riffs, robust basslines, and relentless drum work collide with the aching tension and delicate intricacy of the string section. This juxtaposition evokes a sense of standing on the precipice—teetering between dread and beauty. It’s the kind of music that nightmares are made of, yet it is hauntingly exquisite.
The cinematic nature of “prichitat | stabat filius” is deeply rooted in its inspiration—“The Grand Inquisitor” from Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov. The influence of this philosophical and moral tale is palpable in the song’s dark, dramatic undertones and its exploration of emotional and sonic extremes.
Musically, “prichitat | stabat filius” feels like carefully orchestrated chaos—a maelstrom of sounds and textures, each meticulously placed yet brimming with raw energy. The composition is filled with moments of menace and melancholy woven throughout. What truly sets it apart is its refusal to conform to traditional structures or predictable time signatures. The piece evolves organically, veering off into unexpected territories while remaining anchored by its central theme. It’s as if the song itself is alive, constantly shifting and reshaping itself in ways that feel both alien and compelling.
This is not music for the faint of heart. It’s not meant to provide comfort or adhere to conventional notions of what music “should” be. Instead, it challenges listeners to abandon their preconceptions and immerse themselves in something entirely different. At times, it’s unsettling, even confrontational, but that is precisely the point.
Behind Closed Doors dare us to confront their reality, to embrace their vision of normality—a dark, and deeply human world brimming with intrigue. “Prichitat | stabat filius” offers a rare and fleeting glimpse into their story, and the result is nothing short of mesmerizing.
As the final notes faded, I couldn’t help but wish for more. This single is a tantalizing hint of what the band is capable of, and it leaves me longing for a full-length album of this caliber. Behind Closed Doors have created something truly remarkable—music that challenges, grabs, and lingers in the mind long after it ends.
