From the first note, London-based duo Arliston‘s new album Disappointment Machine grabs you. It steadily unfolds as an immersive experience, a cinematic journey for the soul, pulling you into a sonic world painted with vibrant textures and raw emotion. It’s a cathartic outpouring of inner thoughts that resonate deep within. Each track is a chapter, a snapshot of life’s complexity, inviting listeners to paint their own narratives onto the canvas of sound.
The honesty of this album is palpable. It’s clear these songs were born from genuine experience, forging an immediate connection with the listener. Jack Ratcliffe‘s vocals are soulful, often carrying a sullen undertone that speaks volumes. This emotional performance is a window into the artist’s soul. The lush instrumentals provide the perfect backdrop, creating expansive sonic landscapes that amplify the emotional impact. Producer George Hasbury expertly matches the raw energy of those vocals, creating a truly immersive experience.
Speaking about the album’s central themes of love and love lost, Ratcliffe explains: “I think we all know that if your love for someone was reciprocated, you would learn about the fallibility of that person, their flaws, but because it’s unrequited, they stay forever in that status of ‘perfect’
Focus track ‘Scratches’ is an intimate piano-led ballad exploring the aftermath of a lovers’ quarrel. Fragile and full of regret, the song paints a vivid picture of waiting, with the kitchen table bearing the marks of nervous anticipation. The absent partner’s return, symbolized by the garden light, never comes, leaving a poignant sense of loss and unanswered questions.
The instrumentation is a masterful blend of the organic and the digital, where cellos and pianos intertwine with synths and pads, creating a seamless tapestry of sound. It’s a sonic embrace, engulfing the listener in its rich atmosphere, like a great film or a captivating novel, drawing you in and refusing to let go. Arliston has crafted something truly special with this album. It feels like the culmination of their journey so far – undoubtedly some of their best work yet.
You can also listen to focus track ‘Scratches’ in our Shades of Pop playlist.
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