The one and only Alice Phoebe Lou released her long-awaited new album Oblivion. Beloved for her authenticity and dedication to her craft, the South-African singer-songwriter takes full ownership of the production process of her latest LP. With influences like Nick Drake, Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen, Alice turns vulnerability into strength and conflicted emotions into intimate friends. About this latest project of hers, Alice says,
These songs are coming from the darker places in yourself, that place of holding something inside and then letting it go, even if it’s embarrassing or vulnerable. Oblivion leans into the idea of allowing yourself to let things overflow in order to feel them, work through them, and come out on the other side.
Last year had a lot in store for Alice. Notably, after playing 3 sold-out shows at The Lodge Room in LA, she supported Remi Wolf at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. In addition, she also wrapped up her highly successful European tour. Moreover, she also supported titans such as Men U trust and strongboi. In addition, she also garnered support from NPR, Clash, NME, KCRW, The Line of Best Fit, ELLE, and Consequence. With each new release, her loyal fanbase grew and her shows only continue to top themselves.
The album shines a light on Alice’s roots, busking with the unmistakable presence and energy of a woman on top of her game. She states,
Instead of overthinking the outcome and the judgment, these songs are just creating for myself, a coming home. Oblivion is a place where you can forget what others see in you and find your true essence.
In Oblivion Alice shows us what an artist, fully immersed in her artistry. Additionally, the eleven tracks on the album take us deep on a journey of transformation. It turns her intimate lyricism into precious morsels, meant to be valued. Alice adds,
In this industry there’s an emphasis on needing to go bigger, to one-up yourself, but instead I returned to my roots of playing on the street. These songs come from deep inside my subconscious, dreams, the oblivion of sleep, the place where you can access your deepest thoughts, desires, memories, and true feelings without thinking about the way it’ll be received.
Arguably the center piece of the album, “Mind Reader” carries a striking message of buoyant hope. The track beautifully blends electric guitars with dreamy acoustics, with Alice portraying a relationship with difficult communication.
Alongside the album’s title track “Oblivion,” Alice brings us a breathtaking music video. Directed by the amazing South Africa-born, New York-based filmmaker Jabu Newman, it takes us on a journey of a couple, entranced by each other, as the world around them undergoes constant change and movement.
Watch the official music video to “Oblivion” below
The album in its entirety is indeed a one-of-a-kind testament to push-and-pull subtlety. Throughout, Alice shows us the absolute versatility of her voice. In fact, she effortlessly elevates it to new heights before bringing it right back down to the quiet, confident moments.
It all just came together so quickly, and the intention was so clear. Sometimes I’d hit a note that a few years ago would have completely ruled a take out, but I wanted the songs to to be these imperfect little things. There’s something very sacred and beautiful about trying to let creativity happen without thinking about what the audience will think.
With Oblivion taking right off, we are excited to see where Alice’s journey takes her next. Constantly growing and evolving her music alongside herself, we can be certain that her universe is only going to expand. Grab your tickets if you want to catch her at one of her upcoming shows in Europe, the UK, Canada, or the US.
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