Abu Nein return with “Ghost Puppeteer” — a darkwave call for autonomy and the first single from Is Anyone Awake?

Malmö darkwave act ABU NEIN return with Ghost Puppeteer, the first single from their forthcoming album Is Anyone Awake? The song brings together driving electronics, synthpop hooks and a hypnotic pull towards the dancefloor. At its heart is a story about autonomy and cutting ties. Erica Li Lundqvist’s voice carries the tension between vulnerability and resolve, while a baile funk-esque “Ye Ardina” vocal cuts through the chorus. The result finds room for movement and melody without letting go of the darkness that has become central to ABU NEIN’s sound.

Produced by Erica Lundqvist and Tobias Bernstrup, Ghost Puppeteer introduces an album concerned with self-confrontation, identity and the shadows we carry within us. Following a period of profound change, Lundqvist emerges as the band’s sole remaining songwriter and creative force, working with Bernstrup to shape the next chapter of ABU NEIN.

Since their 2020 debut Secular Psalms, ABU NEIN have established themselves within the European darkwave and post-punk scenes. The debut was nominated for a Manifest award and received the Synthsläggan award for Best Swedish Debut Album. Their third album, III: Dark Faith, received the Manifest award for Best Swedish Synth Album.

The band’s live performances have taken them across Scandinavia and Europe, including appearances at Wave-Gotik-Treffen, Amphi Festival, NCN Festival and Prague Gothic Treffen. They have also shared stages with artists including Kite, The Legendary Pink Dots, Minuit Machine and She Past Away.

Ghost Puppeteer is the first of three singles leading up to Is Anyone Awake?, released February 5, 2027.