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Lennart van Hulst, Kay Koopmans, Nina Lijzenga, Sofie Ooteman and Victor Dijkstra
Marathon is a band forged by the raw intensity of Amsterdam's underground scene. Inviting listeners into a world where sound and emotion fuse together, Marathon is making waves in the post-punk revival scene with a sound that fuses post-punk's edge, shoegaze's atmosphere, and indie's introspection.
Born from spontaneous jam sessions, Marathon's founding members Kay Koopmans, Lennart van Hulst, and Nina Lijzenga first crossed paths in the shadows of high school, united by a shared passion for music that skirts the edges of the mainstream. Their journey eventually led them to Amsterdam, where they navigated a labyrinth of genres, before uncovering their unique identity.
Marathon's music captures the anxieties of the 21st century, with relentless drumming by Lennart, gritty vocals by Kay, and commanding six-string basslines by Nina, creating a backdrop of tension and release. Expanded live by keys and guitars by additional musicians Sofie Ooteman and Victor Dijkstra, Marathon's sound evolves into an explosive mix of post-punk, shoegaze, noise and grunge— a “wall of sound” that captures the chaotic beauty of modern existence.
Though their hybrid style carries a dark undertone, their tributes to post-modern times of frustration are constantly transformed into hopeful opportunities for new beginnings. This duality of light and darkness is the core strength of Marathon's sound, which focuses on the tormented present, but at the same time looks to the future with a benevolent nod.
Known for their gripping live performances, Marathon in recent years has taken to the stages of major festivals like Best Kept Secret, Grauzone, Welcome To The Village, Dauwpop, Valkhof Festival, and Supersonic's Block Party in Paris. Their talent has also landed them a spot on the international showcase circuit, with appearances at ESNS, The Great Escape, and Reeperbahn Festival.
Over recent years, Marathon has continued to evolve and explore their sound, culminating in their highly anticipated debut album, Fading Image, set for release in spring 2025. The album delves into themes of transience, resilience, and the relentless search for grounding amidst societal and personal upheavals, weaving together haunting melodies and introspective lyrics that echo the uncertainties of life. Each track is a glimpse into a world where hope and despair coexist, inviting listeners to confront their own emotions. Hailed by both national and international media as “artist to watch”, Marathon is poised to continue their exploration of sound and emotion—an enigmatic journey that calls to those willing to listen closely.