A dreamy success of a debut solo single from Helsinki-based artist Marie Noël, “Housewife Pearls” moves from spacious synth lushness into sturdy rhythmic appeal — set amidst an affecting lyrical depiction of reclaiming oneself, and specifically desires, queer identity, and suppressed parts. The track was written 12 years ago in her teenage bedroom, though remains evergreen in its depictions of breaking free from the past, while still showing reverence for what came before. Drawing from her classical music training and years spent exploring other creative and professional avenues, Noël now returns to music with renewed purpose and a message that resonates deeply.
A mystique-filled swell of spacey synths immerses from the get-go, as Noël’s wordless vocals integrate a sporadic, soulful power. Steady rhythmic ruminations then move inward as the synths and vocals continue their intermingling entrancement. “My good manners, shattered,” the vocals move into a lyrical prowess, tracing various elements — like the “housewife pearls” — and personal values as they shift, free from the burdens of repression. The “your hands on my hips” segment is powerful in its enthralling refrain, capturing a sort of catharsis and sense of smitten adoration, as one breaks free from personal and societal boundaries.
Noël did a fantastic interview with Luna Collective, elaborating on the creative process and also the origin behind the release’s namesake:
“I grew up with my motherly figures wearing pearls, and to me it’s such a strong symbol. I remember getting a pearl necklace when I was pretty small. Pearls are very pretty. Pearls, girls, gendered expectations to be a pretty girl wearing pearls was and is something that I simultaneously am and want to be—and want to see redone. Again, bowing to the old and classy but letting the pearls shatter and find a new order. Freedom for the pearls!”
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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.
