Lillian’s newest album is titled ‘The World to Come’. Two of the three singles released, ‘Untethered Alchemy’ and ‘Fourth of July’, were reviewed by myself and are available on the Right Chord Music blog.
The gentle, breezy opening of ‘Easy’ takes no time to settle the listener. As with all Lillian’s work, deft lyricism is rife. It’s almost hard to believe Lillian had three songs she chose to release ahead of this. Especially as all three truly deserved their moment in the spotlight. From the very first song, it’s clear this release is something special. ‘Easy’ is a gorgeous insight into the introspective camaraderie Lillian wants to have with her listeners.
‘Move the Moon’ was the second release from the album. The raw, authentic approach to the hanging chorus is breathtaking. Lillian quickly shows how much care she takes in the whole story. An artist who champions album creation is an artist worth listening to. ‘Move the Moon’ links ‘Easy’ and ‘Fourth of July’ with a crafty hand. ‘Fourth of July’ is simply delightful. A full review of the song can be found here on the blog.
Lillian is slightly more playful on ‘Noah’s Ark’. With the same introspection, she drifts between a cheeky reference and an honest reflection of herself. The lines addressing her parents are extremely joyful and catchy.
The title track ‘The World to Come’ opens with a hauntingly beautiful verse. The song maintains this atmosphere, and the following six minutes are spent at Lillian’s mercy. It is always commendable for artists to push themselves to create longer pieces. Lillian deserves commendation not only for publishing a true artistic statement, but for creating a sound to be proud of in the process. Rounding off the halfway point of the track listing, the title track is astounding. After this, it feels like being reborn into the dreamy ‘Untethered Alchemy’. A song that rightfully deserved a review of its own, which can be found here.
‘Grave To Grieve’ is ironically (intentionally so) one of the most upbeat tracks on display. The drums’ pulsing heartbeat flutters throughout the track. A touching story of love and loss weaves its way into the musical mist Lillian casts. Lillian’s messages are often abstract. However, Lillian has an ability to translate abstract thought into insightful, well-paced lyrics.
‘Thank God’ seems to be a simple reflection of love laid over a cascading guitar. Then, without warning, the walls come down. Through gorgeous musical melody and tactical lyricism, Lillian elevates us. With such an array of songwriting talent, it is hard to fathom how her vocals could compare. But they do. ‘Christmas Song’ demonstrates this as well as any of her other tracks. The feeling built on ‘Deep Below’ rounds off the carousel of emotion. The closing track draws a sombre curtain on a spectacular show. These three tracks combine to showcase Lillian’s sound and artistic vision. Simple, honest songwriting, gentle guitars and otherworldly vocals. A perfect ending to a deeply insightful, gorgeous project.
‘The World to Come’ is a truly transcendent album. It is the work of a real, talented artist unafraid of anything. Lillian’s vulnerable attitude allows each listener to comfortably reflect for themselves.
Words by Thomas Pressley Hitchcock
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