'Without The World' is Alicia Merz's debut release, getting a much needed re-pressing. It's an intoxicating work of art that is truly touching, heartbreaking and beautiful, combining dark, haunting soundscapes with the voice of a siren singing you to a dreamy sleep.
Many artists use excessive instrumentation to create atmosphere or mood, 'Without the World' is a master-class of minimalist and experimental song craft. Alicia beautifully uses natural sounds to complement instruments.
On "Whisper a Word" we can here an organ and the sound of wind rustling leaves whilst the breathy ethereal vocal delivery creates a sense of undoubted optimism. There are more traditional lo-fi folk moments on the more relaxed "Fantastic Frown" with acoustic guitar, "Skeletons" breathy vocals, cool ambience and reverbed instrumentation is a touching, emotive highlight.
The titles of "Prey For A Sunny Day" and "Those Blackest Winter Nights" give no secrets to the gloomy, chilly feeling created by the use of drone, waves and electronica, faithfully recreating the feeling of emptiness during those cold, lonely winter's nights.
You've got just two days left to contribute to Alicia's European Tour (end of March / April) and receive some exclusive material in return - for more information on that head here. For the dates (supporting the wonderful Her Name is Calla and beginning March 27th in Leeds head here).
'Without the World' is something to immerse yourself in, its hazy mesmerizing beauty is a perfect antidote to the hectic lives we lead. Enjoy some of the tracks yourself below:
fantastic frown by birds of passage
scarlet monkeys by birds of passage
skeletons by birds of passage
