From Los Angeles, Lael Neale Captivates with Dreamy Lo-Fi Lullabies: Discover Her Unique Sound

One might wonder what the albums of Lana Del Rey would sound like without the Hollywood production, stripped down to raw, impulsive demos, or how Mazzy Star might appear if they showcased a beaming smile instead of a sulky pout amidst the fog. We might find an answer in the latest record from Lael Neale, a beloved artist on the Sub Pop label, previously seen opening for Weyes Blood.

The tracks assembled under the title Altogether Stranger appear to have been written and recorded impulsively, at home with whatever was at hand, for sheer pleasure without any gimmicks—a spontaneous joy blooming like a spring rosebud, though not without its thorns.

With the Fruitful Collaboration of Guy Blakeslee

“The wild waters call to me,” whispers this musician who grew up on a farm in Virginia and now lives in Los Angeles. A press release informs us that this new album was written and recorded in her adopted city, in the peaceful early morning hours.

Indeed, the optimistic glows of dawn light up these nine enchanting songs, including moments inspired by Krautrock (Down on the Freeway) and the most poignant lullaby-ballads (Tell Me How to Be Here, Sleep through the Long Night, There from Here): Lael Neale allows herself to express touching emotions but firmly rejects melancholy.

With a precise diction conducive to contemplation, her clear voice sometimes leads her towards psychedelic pop, stripped-down torch songs, garage rock, or eccentric folk. We are carried along by this flow of desires for half an hour, to the sounds of guitars (acoustic and electric), a piano, and an omnichord, like a lucid dream that we do not wish to awaken from.

Lael Neale is not entirely alone in this journey: the fabulous musician and producer Guy Blakeslee has accompanied her for the third time and remains a constant pillar by her side. Whether together or separately in their exciting respective careers, this spirited duo promises more magical moments of enchantment.

Altogether Stranger (Sub Pop/Modulor). Available from May 2. Live at La Vapeur, Dijon, on May 15 and at Le Hasard Ludique, Paris, on May 16.