For most Norwegians, Carmen Maria Hillestad is known as a successful model, having appeared on the covers of Vogue and Nylon throughout her prolific career. But in 2011, she said goodbye to the world of modelling and become a full blood musician, releasing her critically acclaimed debut album Sleeper under the moniker Carmen Villain in 2013. Here at Ja Ja Ja, we loved her debut and Carmen appeared at the Ja Ja Ja club night the same year.
Four years after the release of her debut, Carmen Villain returns. Last month, she released the EP Planetarium, but more is on its way, as she recently announced that her second album will be out this autumn. The first taste from the upcoming album is the beautiful, dreamy and atmospheric ‘Red Desert’ – named after the classic Italian movie from 1964. Speaking of the song, Carmen says: “The movie is incredibly beautiful and dark at the same time and it is very inspiring. It felt like the perfect title for this song.”
Carmen Villain’s sophomore album Infinite Avenue will be out on the 8th September via Smalltown Supersound. In the meantime – dream away with Carmen on the new single below!
Photo: Signe Luksengard
