Genre: Rock Label: Three Six Zero / Gamma
Willow’s Empathogen is an album that defies categorization and bends genres. It invites listeners into a space where boundaries dissolve and emotions flow freely. A fusion of jazz and rock, this record challenges expectations and creates an intoxicating, equal parts cerebral and visceral atmosphere.
From the moment the first track hits, it's clear that Empathogen is not just a genre experiment. It’s an exploration of feeling odyssey through sound that’s designed to connect, stir, and transcend her music career. The album title, Empathogen, hints at a central theme: the music is a powerful agent for emotional connection, evoking a personal and universal experience. Willow took all control of the album which makes it even more special. There was also no doubt that Willow took inspiration from different places in order to create this album.
Sympathy of Life was the first single of the album and the gateway into Willow’s new sound. The song was more alternative with an engaging delivery of lyrics that invites people into her understanding of life. A life that is very high status and highly publicized. Therefore, she wants people to understand the human experience and the complexities of living.
She carries that theme in first two songs Home (Ft Jean Baptiste) and Ancient Girl exemplify the album’s dual strength in both musical complexity and thematic depth. The track explores identity and belonging in a world and is an emotional centerpiece, featuring Jean Batiste’s soulful voice and instrumentals. The production is lush with a seamless blend of organic sounds and subtle electronic textures, which truly makes the track creative. The contrast between the first two tracks displays Willow’s talent as a producer with Ancient Girl’s production being more stripped back, yet powerful making the tracks feel more grounded. It’s an earthy anthem that celebrates the wisdom passed down through generations, encouraging listeners to find strength in their roots
Willow also expresses her will to be free in Run! With expressive vocals and a minimalist beat, this track captures the essence of craving escape and freedom. It serves as a journey of self-discovery, allowing the artist's voice to shine through a beautiful musical landscape, despite its sparse lyrics.
Willow does a good job exploring the human experience and personal growth through her album, which is clear in the R&B sultry track Down and the atmospheric bittersweetness of Pain for Fun, featuring St. Vincent. However, this album lacks cohesiveness. Like Childish Gambino’s latest release Bando Stone and The Brand New World, the focus was more on the production than the lyrical pattern. Take songs like No Words 1&2, there was a very abrupt start, but there was no lyrics. It was confusing because was this song an interlude? And if it was then it had no connection from the first part of the album to the second part. It is captivating to listen to with the jazz harmonies, however, there was no real purpose of this track other than for Willow to show off her skills.
The Fear Is Not Real and False Self are anthems that navigate Willow’s journey of authenticity. Through multiple anxieties and fears, she highlights inner strength with the narrative of embracing confidence amongst the uncertainty. She offers ethereal vocals and a fusion of pop and R&B elements, enriching the complex emotions expressed.
The songs Between I & She and I Know That Face intertwine to explore the emotional spectrum of complex relationships. While "Between I & She" delves into themes of jealousy, desire, and connection against a backdrop of groovy instrumentation, "I Know That Face" shifts the focus to profound intimacy and recognition, revealing a deeper understanding through its evocative melodies. Together, they create a compelling narrative that highlights both the angst and beauty of human connections.
Big Feelings is another song that embodies emotional intensity and the urgent need for self-expression. It artfully blends the sounds of piano, drums, and synths in a way that feels slightly chaotic yet harmonious, reflecting her growth and vulnerability.
The album has a thread of distinctive stylistic elements run through the songs, from soulful vocals and ethereal soundscapes to groovy instrumentals and beautiful vocal layering. At times reminiscent of Billie Eilish, these tracks create a unique blend that resonates deeply with listeners. The themes start to become very repetitive and less cohesive. However, Willow has shown that she can stand on her own without the shadow of her family to lean on.
Pitchfork rated Empathogen 68%, but there is no Metacritic score for this album. I would have to give it a 70%.
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