Arliston brings us Backwards, the spellbinding single from their latest EP, How In Heaven.
It carries the listener through an ambient journey of raw emotion and artful sonic storytelling, serving up a minimalist feast of heart-rending lyrics underpinned by the intricate interplay of piano, synth, and understated drum beats.
Backwards kicks off with ethereal synth lines, deftly entwining with delicate piano chords.
A subtly developing drum beat gradually supports this eerie opening sequence, creating a meditative soundscape that is both sparse and intricately rich.
Arliston’s command over their unique aural aesthetic shines through as they employ an eclectic blend of minimalist arrangement and sophisticated musicianship.
Lyrically, the track delves into the caverns of social anxiety, setting the stage for introspective exploration, and it’s hard to imagine a more fitting voice to navigate this journey than Jack’s warm baritone.
His delivery invites listeners to submerge themselves into Arliston’s world, where raw emotion and evocative lyrics meet to craft a soothing sound.
The track’s true brilliance unfurls as it escalates into a crescendo of harmonies, with layers of sax, synths, and guitars all throbbing in sync with hypnotic electronic rhythms.
Commenting on the track, Jack reveals an interesting backstory about its inception.
In a rare deviation from his usual process of gradual creation, the verse and melody for Backwards sprang forth fully formed.
However, the chorus posed a formidable challenge, with a full day’s effort seemingly in vain until a last-minute breakthrough saved the day.
Backwards is an unforgettable journey into Arliston’s hauntingly beautiful soundscape.
Its potent blend of raw lyrics, ambient production, and sublime delivery harbour a charm that could easily make it a fan favourite.