It is a busy time for Cutta. Christmas is approaching, and there are countless concerts to rehearse for before he and Irene, along with others, hit various stages ahead. Nevertheless, he has found time to write and record a brand new song, a rock’n roll tune about Halloween.
Hard-Hitting
Jan Kåre Gullestad, which is his real name, has established himself as a versatile artist. An eminent guitarist, backing vocalist, singer, and not least, songwriter.
Before summer, he released a full production of the song “Stand Up Or Stand Down,” which was celebrated with a raucous release concert in his childhood barn at Gullestad.
Now he is ready with yet another new song, Mr. Pumpkin. A real power rock song.
It is a hard-hitting rock song inspired by 80s Power Rock, but with a dash of 2024 in it. Mr. Pumpkin is a typical song that works best at high volume, preferably while you drive on the “Highway” and keep the speed limit at 110 …, says Cutta.
Cutta thinks it’s strange that Halloween doesn’t have a boss. Other celebrations driven by commerce do have one.
– I thought Halloween needed a boss; who he is, I don’t know, but I’m pretty sure he’s a “superstar,” Cutta tells Agder while playing the song in an exclusive preview for Agder.
Money Machine
It’s no secret that the song is by no means an unconditional tribute to the modern Halloween celebration, which has fundamentally become a money-making machine.
Who Mr. Pumpkin really is is up to the listeners to decide, although Cutta definitely offers some hints.
This is a new full production with countless guitars and bass that Cutta himself plays. He has several talented musician friends on board, in addition to his wife Irene, and that brings the rock energy.
– I hope this song gets to live its own life and gets streamed by many. At least I don’t know of anyone else who has addressed this theme in any songs, Cutta continues.
Where No One Is Working
Making songs is what Cutta enjoys the most in addition to performing them.
– I’m a one-man business where no one is actually working. In other words, the songs come to life at strange times of the day and in somewhat unusual places. When I get an idea, I just have to do something with it right then and there, wherever I am, the rocker explains.
Whether we will hear “Mr. Pumpkin” live in the near future is uncertain.
– Doing a rock concert with a full band is a big job and expensive, especially for a one-man business where no one is working, Cutta emphasizes.
That’s why it’s great that on Thursday, on Halloween itself, the song will be available on all streaming services.
But we know that the barn at Gullestad still stands there, so who knows?
– Mr. Pumpkin is a “sing-along song” with a punch that can take you through the autumn darkness, Cutta concludes.
With his somewhat hoarse and powerful voice, along with the kick-drum pedal from Jan Aril Edvardsen Moi and Cutta’s guitar riffs, the song invites headbanging and a proper rock feeling.
Once again, Cutta has fortunately left the accordion in its case.
Interview Between Time.news Editor, Alice Harper, and Jan Kåre Gullestad (Cutta)
Alice Harper: Welcome, Jan! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. You’ve been very busy lately—recording a new rock song just in time for Halloween! Can you tell us a bit about “Mr. Pumpkin”?
Cutta: Thanks for having me, Alice! Yes, ”Mr. Pumpkin” is a rock’n roll tune that embodies the spirit of Halloween, but with a bit of a twist. It’s inspired by the powerful rock sounds of the 80s, but I’ve also infused some modern elements to keep it fresh. I like to think of it as a song that’s best enjoyed at full volume while driving down the highway!
Alice: That sounds exhilarating! You mentioned in a previous interview that you find it strange that Halloween doesn’t have a central figure—a “boss,” if you will. Can you elaborate on that thought?
Cutta: Absolutely! Unlike other commercial holidays that have prominent figures like Santa or the Easter Bunny, Halloween seems a bit lost in that regard. I think it needs a figure that can encapsulate its spirit and stories—perhaps a “superstar” of sorts, someone who could lead the celebrations and give it a more unified identity.
Alice: That’s an interesting perspective! Your song seems to capture both the fun and the commercialization of Halloween. Do you feel that “Mr. Pumpkin” critiques the way Halloween has transformed over the years?
Cutta: Yes, that’s definitely a part of it. While Halloween is a time for fun and creativity, it has also become a money-making machine. I wanted to highlight that duality and invite listeners to think about who or what “Mr. Pumpkin” really is. He’s a character that symbolizes both the excitement and the commercialization of the holiday.
Alice: It sounds like there’s a lot of layered meaning in your music. With your recent release of “Stand Up Or Stand Down,” do you feel like your songwriting is evolving in a new direction?
Cutta: Definitely! Each song is a reflection of where I am at that moment. “Stand Up Or Stand Down” was more of a personal anthem, whereas “Mr. Pumpkin” showcases my playful side while also addressing broader themes. I love to blend my experiences and observations into my music, allowing it to resonate on different levels.
Alice: You’ve had quite the journey as an artist, from being an eminent guitarist to now a versatile singer and songwriter. How has your background influenced your music?
Cutta: My background plays a huge role in my creativity. Growing up in a rural area, I was influenced by a mix of genres and sounds. Playing in my childhood barn really shaped my artistic vision. The acoustic nature of that environment has left a lasting imprint on my style—mixing rawness with polished production.
Alice: It’s great to see your personal history embedded in your music. Before we wrap up, what’s next for you after “Mr. Pumpkin”? Any exciting plans we should look out for?
Cutta: I have a few more surprises lined up, including collaborations and potentially another single or two before the year ends. I’m also gearing up for some live performances, and I can’t wait to bring this high-energy rock vibe to the stage!
Alice: We can’t wait to hear your new music and see you perform live! Thank you so much for joining us today, Cutta. We wish you all the best with “Mr. Pumpkin” and your upcoming projects.
Cutta: Thank you, Alice! It’s been a pleasure talking with you.