Dutch hardcore band SWELL has dropped their newest single, “True Deceiver,” the first track from their upcoming two-song release. Packed with raw energy and a feature from Bryce, vocalist of Mindz Eye, the track cuts deep into themes of apathy and self-destruction, delivering a blistering critique of living passively through life’s insecurities.
“The inspiration behind the song,” the band explains, “was just to make an angry song about people who are stuck in a life of apathy. We’ve been in the same situation where you just go through the days instead of actually live. You’re stuck in your own insecurities and don’t have the strength to do something about it.”
Recording the track came with its own collaboration story. While discussing the idea of a guest feature, the band reflected on their upcoming tour with Mindz Eye that summer.
It felt natural to reach out to Bryce for vocals on the track. “We thought why not ask Bryce? He jumped on it, and the rest is history,” they shared. Bryce’s contribution adds a sharp layer to the song’s already ferocious narrative.
The official video for “True Deceiver,” directed by Jurjen van Mourik, encapsulates the gritty, in-your-face energy that SWELL thrives on. From raw performance shots to the underlying chaos of the visual aesthetic, the video aligns perfectly with the song’s message of pressure and catharsis.
SWELL’s focus on visuals doesn’t stop at the video. They’ve also rolled out new merch designed by key members of their crew. Jurjen van Mourik, the band’s cameraman and roadie, designed a crewneck sweatshirt, while Jimmy Wizard of Higher Power created a striking t-shirt. These designs channel the band’s unapologetic ethos, ensuring fans can rep SWELL both on and off the pit.
The lyrics to “True Deceiver” are as cutting as the track’s delivery, addressing not just personal grievances but also a broader frustration with those who perpetuate cycles of toxicity. The chorus drives home a sense of vindication and a refusal to tolerate complacency or false fronts.
View this post on Instagram
SWELL has also announced an exciting lineup of shows, ensuring that fans have plenty of opportunities to experience the band’s unrelenting live energy:
16 Nov – JZ Riot, Lichtenstein (w/ Going Off, Slow Burn, Heatwave)
23 Nov – Revolution Calling, Eindhoven (w/ Biohazard, Agnostic Front, Comeback Kid, No Turning Back + more)
29 Nov – Neushoorn, Leeuwarden (w/ Those Left Standing, Burning Dixi)
More dates are expected soon, so keep an eye on their official pages.
“True Deceiver” was recorded, mixed, and mastered by The Wardrums, while the artwork for the release came from @dewey_312.
Keep in the loop!
🗞️ Subscribe on Substack
🔔 Join our Messenger and WhatsApp
📜 Get daily news via Instagram Stories
Your support keeps us alive!
IDIOTEQ is a one-man DIY operation, tirelessly spotlighting the local cultural scenes and independent bands that often go unreported elsewhere. Born in the early 00s, this platform has been committed to giving hard-working artists the high-quality coverage they truly deserve.
No ads, no distractions—just pure inspiration and a genuine focus on independent artists and their stories.
Please consider helping keep IDIOTEQ ad-free and in tune with the indie scene by donating today.
DONATE via PayPal 𝗈𝗋 SUPPORT via Patreon
100% of the funds collected go toward maintaining and improving this magazine. Every contribution, however big or small, is super valuable.
Your support ensures that we continue to be a place where you can discover, learn, and get inspired, without any advertising noise. Thank you for being a part of this musical journey.
