Matías Roden Explores Existential Struggles and Self-Discovery in “Disease with No Name”

Vancouver-based artist Matías Roden presents his powerful new single, “Disease with No Name,” a midtempo indie pop/soft rock ballad that delves into the complexities of existential dread, depression, and self-examination. The track, which draws from Roden’s personal battle with chronic pain and the frustration of being dismissed by medical professionals, captures the essence of feeling lost in life without knowing why. Through this deeply personal reflection, Roden transforms his own suffering into a broader meditation on the universal experience of searching for meaning, connection, and understanding.

The hauntingly atmospheric “Disease with No Name” is rich with nostalgia and emotional depth. The song blends early ‘90s pop rock influences—such as Bruce Springsteen’s minimalist yet heartfelt songwriting and Sinéad O’Connor’s atmospheric use of icy synths—into a modern, cinematic soundscape. With its anthemic instrumentation and sweeping melodies, the track evokes a sense of melancholy, movement, and catharsis, pulling listeners into a world of introspection. “I wanted this song to feel both intimate and grand—like you’re sitting alone with your thoughts, but they’re expanding beyond the room, beyond the city, into something huge and uncontainable,” explains Matías Roden.

Co-produced by the talented Louise Burns (known for her work with Hotel Mira and Haley Blais), “Disease with No Name” is an evocative and deeply personal listening experience. The song’s structure, which builds into a sweeping instrumental break, mirrors the emotional weight of its subject matter, capturing the tension between the pain of feeling misunderstood and the subsequent journey toward self-discovery. As the song grows, so does its emotional impact—taking the listener on a journey from isolation and frustration to a sense of release and vulnerability.

At its core, “Disease with No Name” is a reflection on the struggle of not knowing what’s missing in life, despite an overwhelming feeling that something is absent. For Roden, this struggle is not just physical; it is also emotional and existential. “The song is about the feeling of losing something, not being able to put your finger on what it is, but knowing that something is not right,” he shares. “It’s about being trapped in your own head and trying to figure out what’s wrong with you, but no one seems to understand.”

Despite its heavy subject matter, “Disease with No Name” manages to strike a delicate balance between vulnerability and strength. Roden’s introspective lyrics and evocative delivery capture the vulnerability of the human condition, while the sweeping instrumentation elevates the song to a grand, cinematic scale. The track’s fusion of introspective storytelling with emotionally charged sonic elements creates an immersive experience for listeners—one that invites reflection on their own struggles with identity, mental health, and the search for meaning.

His ability to weave together influences from past eras while staying true to his own unique vision has become one of his defining characteristics as an artist. The track’s sonic landscape—grounded in the sounds of the ‘90s, yet clearly distinct from any one influence—reflects Roden’s skill in creating music that feels both familiar and fresh. By combining the sounds of a bygone era with the energy of modern indie music, he crafts a sound that feels timeless and yet entirely his own.

Raised in Peru and now based in Canada, Matías Roden’s music reflects both his personal and artistic evolution. Over the years, Roden has cultivated a sound that is as introspective as it is expansive, fusing the vulnerability of indie folk with the anthemic qualities of pop and rock. His 2024 debut EP, The Plea, was met with acclaim, with its single “Close Your Eyes” earning airplay on CBC and resonating with underground audiences across North and South America. The EP’s unapologetically queer anthem showcases Roden’s ability to create music that speaks to marginalized communities while also appealing to a wider, more diverse audience.

Now, as he prepares for the release of his full-length debut album in early 2025, “Disease with No Name” offers a glimpse into the depth and complexity of his artistry. The song is a reflection of Roden’s journey as both an artist and an individual, confronting the limitations of his body and mind while seeking a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him. As he continues to explore the intersections of identity, emotion, and self-discovery, Roden’s music promises to captivate and inspire listeners who find solace in the raw honesty of his work.

With “Disease with No Name,” Matías Roden has crafted a powerful, introspective anthem that speaks to the universal human experience of struggling with internal battles and the longing for clarity and meaning. Through a haunting blend of ‘90s-inspired pop rock and modern indie elements, the song captures the complexity of the human condition, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys of self-exploration.