About & Music
Magda Novels
Folk, Indie, Roots Artist
Pic by Oliva Modalen
Biography
Magda Novels is the musical alter ego of Swedish singer-songwriter Magda Andersson, known for her powerful vocals, emotive storytelling, and dynamic stage presence. Blending elements of folk, indie, and rock, her music dives deep into themes of vulnerability, introspection, and emotional resilience — always with a raw and fearless edge.
Before launching her solo project, Magda gained international recognition as the frontwoman of the folk-pirate band Ye Banished Privateers, performing at major festivals across Europe. That experience helped shape her captivating live energy, which she now channels into a more intimate and atmospheric sound with Magda Novels.
Formed in 2022, Magda Novels merges acoustic instrumentation with layered electric guitar, synths, and haunting melodies to create an immersive sonic landscape. Drawing influence from legendary artists like Patti Smith and Joni Mitchell, Magda embraces artistic risk and emotional depth in her songwriting. Her music is rooted in the storytelling traditions of Sweden, yet resonates globally with its timeless emotional honesty.
Her debut EP, released in 2023, introduced a unique sonic world that captured both critical attention and a loyal following. In June 2025, Magda released her new single “House of Mirrors” a deeply personal song accompanied by a striking music video. The track explores themes of identity, distortion, and the struggle to see oneself clearly.
Band members
Magda Novels is flexible and available as a solo artist, duo, trio, or full band, making her suitable for a wide range of venues and festivals.
Band Members (full lineup):
Magda Andersson – lead vocals, acoustic guitar
Jessica Nordström – backing vocals, piano
Satria Karsono – backing vocals, electric guitar & banjo
Niklas Lindroth – drums
Michel Beeckman – bass
Whether performing solo or with the full band, Magda delivers an engaging, dynamic, and intimate performance that blends folk, indie, and rock into a unique sound.
“For me, it’s not about having the most beautiful voice, but about letting emotions speak. My voice is an instrument to tell stories, convey feelings, and take artistic risks.”
Live Performance Reviews
“Magda Novels paints entire worlds in minutes — vulnerable, raw, and astonishingly precise… her energy leaps from the stage, and her voice opens up a whole universe.”
Magda Novels underlines the depth of her debut album Shadow Work at P60 - December 6th 2025
Magda Novels, the musical alter ego of Swedish singer-songwriter Magda Andersson, delivered a captivating performance at P60 in Amstelveen. In just a few minutes, she painted entire worlds with her music — vulnerable, raw, and astonishingly precise. Her powerful vocals opened a complete universe for the audience, drawing them into every song.
The intimate yet energetic show showcased not only her melodic and lyrical skills but also the emotional depth that defines Shadow Work. Every note and nuance resonated with the audience, leaving a lasting impression. Supported by her full live band, Magda created an atmosphere that was both engaging and immersive.
The performance confirmed her reputation as a versatile artist capable of blending folk, indie, and rock into a unique sound that is both personal and universally appealing.
Music Releases Reviews
Full-Length Album: Shadow Work, Volume 1
Release date: 14 November 2025
“Magda Novels’ music sounds different from the average roots album, and that’s a strength. With repeated listens, Vol. 1 Shadow Work becomes increasingly enjoyable and comfortable, revealing a unique, atmospheric depth that sets her apart.”
“With Vol. 1 Shadow Work, Magda Novels shows she is a very promising talent in the folk scene … her voice is warm and calm, at times reminding of Amanda Shires, a gentle, soothing tone that’s easy to appreciate.”
“Musically, Vol. 1 Shadow Work showcases Magda Novels’ mastery of subtle, layered arrangements. Blending folk, indie, and ambient textures, the album highlights delicate guitar and banjo work, rich backing vocals, and atmospheric soundscapes that perfectly frame her intimate and expressive voice.”
“Her vocal likeness to Patti Smith stands out from the very first moment. The guitar playing is exceptional, supported by an understated and minimal arrangement, truly beautiful. ”
“A singer with a broadly usable voice – between deeply lived, raw, sustained and poppy high.”
“Magda Novels’ debut album is a delicate but fearless journey into the unseen layers of the self. Blending folk, americana and indie textures, she crafts a sound that feels both raw and refined, intimate yet expansive. Vol. 1 Shadow Work signals the arrival of a storyteller whose music resonates long after the final note fades.”
“Vol. 1 Shadow Work is a promising debut album that calls for a swift and worthy follow-up.”
“The electric guitar sounds warm, the electric piano throws in some extra sparks, and Novels’ strong voice pulls you into the record without hesitation.”
“Vol. 1 Shadow Work goes far beyond folk, blending indie-pop, desert rock, and psychedelic moments to create an album that is both atmospheric and transcendent.”
“Magda Novels gives her musical ‘Vol. 1 Shadow Work’ journey a distinctly personal touch … her voice shifts between relatively high sung tones with a heart-piercing intensity.”
“Between folk, indie-pop and ambient, MAGDA NOVELS unfolds delicate, multi-layered soundscapes that give her lyrics room to breathe”
Sources
De krenten uit de pop - Erwin Zijleman (The Netherlands)
Orange Flag Music - William (The Netherlands)
Bluestown Music by Harry (The Netherlands)
Real Roots Café - Ronand Valstar (The Netherlands)
Culturemania (The Netherlands)
Westzeit - Joachim 'Joe' Brookes (Germany)
Release single release: Leaves
Relesae date: Friday 17 October 2025
Following her debut single House of Mirrors, Magda Novels has released her second single on Spotify. The track is more upbeat and folky, bridging the sound of Prologue into the upcoming full-length album, and reflects the album’s themes of resilience and embracing change even when difficult.
Listen on Spofiy: “Leaves”
Release single & video release: House of Mirrors
Release date: Friday June 13 -2025
A captivating new single with video, offering fans a glimpse of what’s to come in their evolving sound.
Magda Novels' latest single HOUSE OF MIRRORS delves into the emotional labyrinth of self-doubt, identity confusion, and the struggle for personal authenticity. With its haunting imagery of a “mirror maze” and the vulnerability of trying to be free, the track explores the complexities of mental health and how distorted self-perception can trap us in cycles of overthinking.
“A mirror maze inside my mind. Every move I make, another reflection twisted to absurdity.”
About the Song
This track is a reflection of Magda's internal dialogue, where each verse feels like a dance — both a performance and a struggle to break free. The lyrics use the metaphor of a “HOUSE OF MIRRORS” to describe the disorienting experience of living in a world where your own identity feels elusive. The song speaks to anyone who has ever felt lost in their own thoughts, questioning what’s real and trying to find their true self amidst distorted reflections.
About the Video
In a mist-veiled house of mirrors and peeling beauty, a young woman floats—wrapped in glistening deadstock tulle and organza. Light dances on her sleeves, made for movement. A breathtaking climax unfolds, delicate and defiant, where windows echo her every step.
Why It Matters
Magda Novels' music speaks to universal themes of identity, self-doubt, and emotional struggle, resonating with listeners who seek authenticity in an often-confusing world. With a powerful, raw approach to songwriting and a voice that carries deep emotional weight, Magda is carving out a space for those who feel overlooked or misunderstood. Her boldness to embrace vulnerability and push artistic boundaries is what sets her apart in today’s music scene.
Reviews House of Mirrors
“Some works have the gift of bringing a beautiful, naive touch, yet simultaneously creating a somewhat somber atmosphere. We often see this in cinema, but in music, it’s something rarer. However, this is the aura that artist Magda Novels brings to her newest single.
It’s “HOUSE OF MIRRORS,” a song with lyrics that explore the labyrinth of doubt, identity, and distorted perception. Musically, it’s a pop song with a country twist and an erudite undertone that makes everything even more obscure, but the singer’s voice is masterful! Listen and see for yourself.”
“Magda Novels once again proves why she is one of the most compelling voices in the Scandinavian indie folk-pop scene.”
Release EP: Proloque
Release date: 29 March 2023
The debut EP from Magda Novels, showcasing a blend of Americana and indie folk with atmospheric pop influences. The EP’s tracks highlight Magda Andersson's evolution as an artist, offering fans a taste of her new direction.
“This ear-candy features Andersson’s magnifying vocals, ideally combined with a driving alt-americana vibe and a hauntingly addictive chorus, that won’t leave anybody unaffected.”
Live Compilation in P60 | 2024
Magda Novels' very first performance, captured in this live compilation at P60. The video showcases the beginning of Magda's new musical journey and the first sparks of the band's unique sound.
Channeling the vibe of…
First Aid Kit - PJ Harvey - Patti Smith - Agnes Obel - Ane Brun - Fleedwood Mac - Caroline Rose - Sarah Klang
Booking & Management
Redbird Bookings
Bianca Dekker
Tel. +31 6 512 459 65
info@redbirdbookings.com
Chamber of Commerce no.59783680
www.redbirdbookings.com
JohTheMa PROMOTIONS
Jan Janssen
Tel: +31 6 120 487 08
johthema.promotions@gmail.com
Chamber of Commerce no.73170267
https://johthemapromotions.com/
Other Musical Projects
Magda Andersson - Solo work
2014 - Magda Andersson (EP)
2016 - Korsa Gränser (album)
2018 - Fladder (EP)
2019 - PM: Lossad (album)
2021 - Det som tar oss genom natten (single), Sommarstugan brinner (single)
Video Barefoot sessions: Magda Andersson & Erik Henebratt (Blaze Foley - If I Could Only Fly)
A beautiful, stripped-back performance of Blaze Foley's classic, "If I Could Only Fly," featuring Magda Andersson and Erik Henebratt in a soul-stirring duet, showcasing their deep musical chemistry.
Discography Magda Andersson Contribution to Ye Banished Privateers
As the frontwoman of Ye Banished Privateers, Magda Andersson played a pivotal role in the band’s distinct sound and storytelling. Her dynamic vocals were central to three major releases:
2017 – First Night Back in Port
2020 – Hostis Humani Generis:
2021 – A Pirate Stole My Christmas
Magda’s contributions shaped their international success and laid the groundwork for her solo endeavors and Magda Novels.
Chained Below (Official Video) | Napalm Records
Magda takes center stage in Chained Below, showcasing her commanding vocals and theatrical intensity with Ye Banished Privateers. Released via Napalm Records, this powerful video highlights her ability to merge raw storytelling with dynamic performance, foreshadowing the artistic depth she now channels into Magda Novels.
YBP & Umeå Musiksällskap Symphony Orchestra: Annabel
Magda delivers a hauntingly beautiful performance of Annabel alongside Ye Banished Privateers and the Umeå Musiksällskap Symphony Orchestra in this captivating live video.
Annabel (Official Video) | Napalm Records
This official video captures Magda’s commanding presence as a front woman of Ye Banished Privateers, showcasing her skill and stage charisma.
Drowned Waltz (The Pirate Sessions) | Napalm Records
A live performance from Ye Banished Privateers, highlighting Magda's dynamic performance and the band's distinctive sound in this pirate-themed session.
Reviews
Mit ihrem Überhit ´Annabel´ steigen die PRIVATEERS dann auch gleich in den bunten Reigen großartiger Hymnen für die Ewigkeit ein. Sängerin Magda verkörpert perfekt die lebensfrohe, aber immer wieder vom Leben in der neuen Welt gebeutelte Annabel, die am Ende des Stücks nach einem Indianerüberfall durch einen Pfeil im Knie Wundfieber bekommt und diesem dann erliegt. Sie verkörpert diese Kunstfigur in ihrer Performance sogar so überzeugend, dass man bei Auftritten der Band schon zu Tränen gerührt ist. Großartige Sängerin und Darstellerin. Saitenkult.de
The first track off the new record is Annabel, which is a gentle introduction into the style of the band. Magda Märlprim’s vocal delivery is excellent throughout as she sings a harrowing tale, and the collaboration of recorder, percussion and accordion all helps to take you back in time as you discover what music was like during that time period.
Distortedsoundmag.com
It all starts with the story of poor Annabel buried in Georgia, a really strong ballad impressively sung by Magda Anderson.
Celtcast.com
Ye Banished Privateers