A dynamic folk sound, spanning from ethereally inviting to moody haunts, stirs across Opia, the consuming new album from aeseaes. The Austin, TX-based husband‑and‑wife duo present a consistently beautiful sound, paired with lyrical themes that envelop in perspectives of the self, artistic processes, and philosophical introspection; they explore everything from the tyranny of one’s own mind, to Carl Jung’s concept of the shadow and unconscious. Melodic productions shine alongside, featuring riveting vocal dreaminess and eclectic instrumentation — ranging from orchestral-laden expanses to more familiar folk and rock arsenals. aeseaes have also drawn an ample following on Twitch (170k+ followers), where they perform live and engage with fans.
Opening track “Finifugal” quickly showcases the duo’s tendency for sating structural momentum, maneuvering here from quaint piano shimmers and percussive pit-pattering into caressing vocal soaring amidst hints of strings and brass. The ensuing “Humdrum” embraces a more fervent immediacy, beckoning to “give me that power, give me that fascination” as a more rock-forward array of guitars and drums assemble. Gorgeous orchestral infusions arrive thereafter, moving into a spine-tingling vocal heightening into the final minute. Another standout comes on the plucky and elegant “Voice,” where ruminations on one’s mind as a prison persists within poetic lyrical imagery: “Lock up your tongue / climb like a vine / bloom bright anemones / over their eyes” — capturing how self-imposed mental constraints can grow and obscure truth, even as they present an alluring escape.
Similar themes of internal pressure flow on “Voice,” pondering a balance between dreams and call-to-action within climactic guitar tones and latter orchestral additions. “Freefall into an endless dream, fumes suffocate light blossoming,” the vocals let out; similar to “Voice” the reflection of an enticing departure from reality, and how that can suffocate potential creativity and light, plays with poignant impact. The Marissa Nadler-esque “Horror Vacui” is also wonderfully done. Another highlight also comes via “Wild West,” where twangy guitar mystique complements western-themed cinematic lyrical appeal, exploring the pursuit of what matters in life — for some being gold at all costs and others the rule of law, while some value love and connection above all. Opia is a resonating success from the duo, who impress with captivating songwriting and mood-filled productions throughout.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
