LUNA: The Emotional Journey Behind “Personal Torture” and the Transformation in “No Rest”

In this exclusive interview, LUNA opens up about the journey behind the creation of ‘No Rest,’ the transformative power of vulnerability, and how her time in Stockholm became a backdrop for personal and artistic growth. She also reflects on the evolution of her sound, balancing introspection with pop sensibilities, and her preparations for the next exciting chapter in her career…

You’ve described “Personal Torture” as a moment of clarity and honesty. Can you walk us through the emotional journey behind writing this track?

Writing “Personal Torture” felt like peeling back layers of myself. It started as a quiet realization that I’d been holding onto things—expectations, memories, fears—that were no longer serving me. The track captures that moment when you stop running from yourself and confront those feelings head-on. It’s painful but also freeing, like turning on a light in a dark room.

The song is deeply introspective, dealing with personal battles and breaking free from expectations. How do you balance personal vulnerability with the need to create music that resonates with a wide audience?

Vulnerability is at the heart of my music, but I try to express it in a way that feels universal. While the emotions in “Personal Torture” are deeply personal, they’re also things we all face—self-doubt, letting go, finding inner strength. I think the balance comes from trusting that if I’m honest about my experiences, others will see pieces of themselves in the music, too.

The track is part of your upcoming album No Rest. Can you share a bit about the creative direction of the album and how it differs from your previous work?

No Rest is more raw and daring than anything I’ve done before. While my debut album, Nocne Zmory, was introspective and dreamy, No Rest explores the tension between vulnerability and resilience. The sound is edgier, with bolder production and a deeper emotional core. It’s a reflection of who I am now—restless, curious, and unafraid to take risks.

You mentioned writing “Personal Torture” in Stockholm, feeling both far from your comfort zone and closer to yourself. How did the environment influence the creation of this track?

Stockholm has this stark, beautiful quality that really mirrored my headspace at the time. Being so far from home made me feel isolated but also gave me the space to connect with myself on a deeper level. The stillness of the city white nights was like a blank canvas, and that solitude shaped the emotional tone of “Personal Torture”.

“Personal Torture” seems like a powerful preview of the emotional intensity of No Rest. How do the songs on the album reflect your personal growth since the release of Nocne Zmory?

The songs on No Rest reflect a sense of transformation. With Nocne Zmory, I was exploring the dream and nightmare world, but with No Rest, I’m turning inward, questioning who I am and what drives me. The album captures moments of pain, hope, and empowerment, showing a much more nuanced version of myself. It’s like the next chapter in a very personal story.

You’ve built a reputation for blending catchy melodies with deep, introspective lyrics. How do you balance the energetic pop sound with the intimate themes you explore in your songs?

I love that duality—pairing something upbeat and infectious with lyrics that dig deep. It’s like wrapping a complex emotion in something people can dance to or hum along with. Music has always been a way for me to process my emotions, and I think that contrast makes the message hit even harder. It’s joy and sadness, hope and fear—all existing together.

The song touches on letting go of expectations and embracing one’s true self. What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to let go of something that’s holding them back?

Letting go is never easy, but it’s often the first step toward real growth. I’d say, allow yourself to feel the weight of what you’re holding onto, but don’t let it define you. Take small steps—write it down, talk about it, or express it creatively. The hardest part is starting, but once you do, you’ll realize how much lighter you can feel.

How are you preparing both personally and professionally for what’s next in your career?

I’m moving to London this week. So personally, I’m really focusing on staying grounded and finding balance amidst all the changes excitement. I’ve learned how important it is to carve out time for myself, whether that’s through journaling, spending time with loved ones, or just taking a walk. Professionally, I’m diving into rehearsals and preparing visuals for the live phase of No Rest. I’m also challenging myself to keep experimenting and pushing my creative boundaries.