Published: March 27, 2026 · 3:31 PM EDT
Sirenia and Tristania founder reinterprets the a-ha classic with Marcela Bovio, expanding his collaborative project with guest vocalists across the metal scene
Norwegian musician Morten Veland, known for his work with Sirenia and as founder of Tristania, continues to develop his solo project Mortemia with a new release from “The Cover Collab Sessions”.
The track “Take on Me”, originally released by a-ha in 1985, is presented here in a reimagined version featuring guest vocalist Marcela Bovio, bringing a new dimension to one of the most recognizable songs in pop history.
Rather than replicating the original arrangement, the track is transformed through Mortemia’s heavier and more atmospheric approach, integrating guitar-driven textures while preserving the essence of the composition.
Morten Veland reflects on the choice of song:
“I still remember very well when this song was released back in 1985... it was something very different that I had never heard before. I wanted to make a tribute to a-ha for a long time, and I eventually ended up making a rendition of their greatest hit ‘Take on Me’.”
The collaboration with Marcela Bovio marks a continuation of their previous work together, adding a vocal performance that expands the track’s dynamic range.
Bovio comments on the experience:
“The chorus was the biggest vocal challenge I've faced in a long time... my voice was pushed to its absolute limits, and I am 100% here for it.”
These statements not only reflect the creative process behind the track but also highlight the technical and emotional demands involved in reinterpreting such a well-known composition.
“The Cover Collab Sessions” represent the latest chapter in Mortemia’s collaborative concept, following previous series built around guest vocalists. The project continues to bring together artists from across the metal scene while maintaining a cohesive sonic identity.
Since reactivating Mortemia after more than a decade, Veland has focused on a format centered on collaboration, featuring vocalists such as Liv Kristine, Melissa Bonny, Brittney Slayes, Fabienne Erni, Dianne van Giersbergen, and Chiara Tricarico, among others.
Rockum previously covered Mortemia in September 2025, highlighting Morten Veland’s ongoing collaboration series with guest vocalists from across the metal scene.
Read the feature here
With this reinterpretation of “Take on Me”, Morten Veland continues to expand Mortemia’s collaborative vision, transforming a classic composition into a heavier and more layered musical experience while preserving its cultural significance.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
Photo credits Marcela pics: Ferry Duijsens, Jord Otto
Photo credits Morten pics: Cécile Delpoio
Watch the video for “Take on Me” below:
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