“Irreversible Damage,” the emotional centerpiece of the Weather Station’s seventh album, Humanhood, captures a poignant conversation between songwriter Tamara Lindeman and a friend. Against a backdrop of warping synth chords and a meandering saxophone melody, the friend asks, “When you get shattered into a million pieces, what can you do?” This dialogue delves into personal heartache and environmental concerns, reflecting the album’s theme of destruction and the potential for rebuilding.
The Weather Station: A Musical Journey
For over a decade, the Weather Station has been known for their emotionally resonant and beautifully crafted music. With the release of 2021’s Ignorance, the band reached a new level of musicality, incorporating a full band sound that expanded Lindeman’s early folk roots. The album focused on the climate crisis and Lindeman’s personal grief over its impact, setting the stage for their subsequent release, How Is It That I Should Look at the Stars, which explored more intimate themes.
Creating Humanhood
Humanhood sees Lindeman reuniting with the rhythm section from Ignorance, along with additional musicians on woodwinds and bass. The album was born out of two improvisational sessions at Canterbury Music Company in Toronto, later refined with overdubs of various instruments. The collaborative process gives Humanhood a lush and intricate sound, with songs that unfold organically and offer moments of introspection and contemplation.
Lindeman’s Captivating Voice
Throughout Humanhood, Lindeman’s vocals remain a focal point, drawing listeners in with their intimacy and vulnerability. Songs like “Sewing” and “Lonely” showcase her ability to convey complex emotions with a conversational tone or a delicate whisper. Lindeman’s lyrics touch on her struggles with depersonalization, adding a layer of introspection and vulnerability to the album.
Seamless Integration of Instrumentals
One of the standout features of Humanhood is the seamless integration of instrumentals throughout the album. Tracks like “Mirror” and “Ribbon” feature extended, wordless outros that allow the music to breathe and evolve. Abstract instrumental pieces like “Descent” and “Aurora” create atmospheric soundscapes that add depth and complexity to the album’s overall narrative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Humanhood represents a significant evolution in the Weather Station’s musical journey, showcasing a deeper exploration of personal and environmental themes. Lindeman’s captivating vocals, combined with the band’s intricate instrumentation, create a compelling listening experience that invites reflection and introspection.
FAQs
Q: What inspired the themes of personal heartache and environmental concerns in Humanhood?
A: The album’s themes were influenced by Lindeman’s personal experiences with grief and the impact of the climate crisis on her emotional well-being.
Q: How does Humanhood differ from the Weather Station’s previous releases?
A: Humanhood builds upon the band’s previous work by incorporating a fuller sound and a more collaborative approach to songwriting and production.
Q: How has Lindeman’s vocal style evolved on Humanhood?
A: Lindeman’s vocals on Humanhood showcase a greater range of emotion and vulnerability, reflecting her personal struggles and growth as an artist.
Credit: pitchfork.com
