Spanish Castles, the solo project of musician and visual artist Kirk Edward Nilsen II, has released its new EP 'Sombra Del Sol', a richly textured collection shaped by classical guitar, flamenco, Mediterranean folk and darker alternative influences.
Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Nilsen draws inspiration from his Portuguese roots in the Azores and his Norwegian family heritage, using instrumental storytelling to create music that feels steeped in forgotten landscapes and centuries-old tradition. Across the EP, acoustic passages sit alongside rumba rhythms, Arabic flourishes, baroque detail and flashes of folk-punk and metal, resulting in a sound that is both intimate and cinematic.
His background as a tattoo and fine artist also plays a central role in the project. Known for intricate Gothic and medieval architectural work, he brings the same attention to detail and handmade character to Spanish Castles.
Have a listen to 'Sombra Del Sol' in the player below.