The Setting Son Releases ‘Cul-De-Sac’
The Setting Son is a Danish rock band that emerged in Copenhagen in 2006, known for its distinctive blend of garage rock, psychedelic pop, and fuzzed-out melodies. At the heart of the band is Sebastian T.W. Kristiansen, the creative force and primary songwriter, whose talent and unconventional beginnings laid the foundation for the band’s success in the Danish music scene.
Early Years
Kristiansen, a quiet and introspective artist from Østerbro in Copenhagen, began making music on his own. Before forming the band, he wrote and recorded over 50 songs on a 4-track tape recorder in his apartment. These raw demos caught the attention of Lorenzo Woodrose, a key figure in Denmark’s psychedelic rock scene from bands like Baby Woodrose and Spids Nøgenhat, who shared them with Bad Afro Records. The label recognized Kristiansen’s potential and encouraged him to form a band. In 2007, The Setting Son released their self-titled debut album with the help of seasoned musicians. Despite Kristiansen’s limited live performance experience, his strong melodies and songwriting set the band apart in the neo-psychedelic scene.
Hiatus and Return in 2024
After Before I Eat My Eyes and Ears, The Setting Son took a decade-long hiatus. In 2024, they returned with three demo albums featuring early recordings from their first three records. These raw demos thrilled longtime fans and introduced the band to new listeners, highlighting Kristiansen’s creative process.
Cul-De-Sac (2025)
In 2025, The Setting Son released their fourth album, Cul-De-Sac, on vinyl and digitally on June 6, 2025. The album was preceded by singles: “Cul-De-Sac” (February 28), “I Still Can’t Decide What I Want” (April 18), “Going South” featuring Emma Acs (May 16), and “Sleep (Dedicated to Heinzz)” (May 30), a tribute to their late friend and organist, Henrik “Heinzz” Malm. Mixed by Christian Ki, Cul-De-Sac blends the band’s classic psychedelic fuzz and catchy hooks with a modern edge, exploring themes of loss and renewal.
Though The Setting Son never achieved mainstream international success, their music resonates with fans of garage revival and psychedelic pop. With Cul-De-Sac, they remain a beloved name in Denmark’s underground rock scene.
Band Members
Sebastian T.W. Kristiansen: Lead vocals, rhythm guitar, organ Adam Olsson: Lead guitar, backing vocals
Tobias Winberg: Bass
Adam Winberg: Drums, percussion
