Track Of The Day: Alaskalaska – ‘Glass’

Painting a sonic picture of mystery and gloom, South London’s ALASKALASKA brings a beautiful eeriness in latest single ‘Glass’. Taken from their new album release Still Life, it oozes a resistant spirit whilst confronting the question: “Do we work to live or live to work?”, pondering the unhealthy relationships we have with work and the societal expectations that come with it. 

ALASKALASKA uses a theme of choice to depict the coercive correspondence of hustle culture in ‘Glass’. Although mid-paced, everything about ‘Glass’ feels demanding while it requests our undivided attention as the track intensifies. Hypnotic synth pads and a crisp drum beat kick off ‘Glass’ with immediate sophistication that soon introduces Lucinda’s effortlessly cool vocals, the flow with. nonchalant grace while delivering their critical take on societal norms. Luncinda’s lyrics to speak for themselves, leaving room for listeners to reflect on themselves and consider their unique roles in the need to grind. 

Building from an indie-electronica base, ALASKALASKA seems to handpick elements of the genre solely to serve the disposition of ‘Glass’, whilst drawing on influence from artists such as Porches and Tame Impala to execute the track’s story. The lyrical concepts and rich mix of eclectic sounds make boundaries limitless, inspiring us to expand our philosophy on genre and society. If ‘Glass’ is just one avenue for ALASKALASKA, Still Life is certain to be a compelling journey in its entirety.

Still Life, the new album from ALASKALASKA, is out now via Marathon Artists. And catch ALASKALASKA live, currently on tour supporting Porridge Radio – details here.

Jill Goyeau
@jillybxxn

Photo Credit: Tami Aftab

Track Of The Day: Alaskalaska – ‘Still Life’

Fresh after announcing their upcoming album Still Life, South London band ALASKALASKA have released the record’s title track in an exploratory and curious single. Arriving this Autumn, Still Life will embrace a free-form electronica disposition filled with digital sounds, rich melodies, drum machines and the sparse involvement of acoustic instrumentation. 

With the latest single of the same name, Alaskalaska grasp at a knot tangled by existential dread and the simplicity of life’s simple pleasures, painting an enchanting teaser for the album. Paired with an abstract music video, ‘Still Life’ builds a world with melodic, arpeggiated synths and circular lyrics. With a lyrical refrain building the tension, ALASKALASKA’s story feels interpersonal – oozing a profound immersive soundscape, spinning thoughts of uncertainty. 

Building with intensity, layers of sound are interwoven, building to a climax of fuzz emulating irritation. This distinct arrangement later comes to a burst as the tension of ‘Still Life’ peaks. Eerie reverbs and modulations shift the tone of ALASKALASKA from left to right, delving into a sonic chaos that pays off as stirring, ethereal vocals echo in the background.  

As the track settles, ‘Still Life’ remains in the back of listeners’ minds; swirling and dancing around our thoughts; creating a sparkling moment for reflection. ALASKALASKA has set the scene for a captivating ‘Still Life’ – one that is multidimensional and full of character.

Of the track, the band explain:

“‘Still Life’ asks is what is supposed to connect us on a worldwide scale being used more for vanity/ego, distraction or even surveillance/control? ‘Look at it breed, modern greed…’. It’s a bit of a cautionary tale, much like 1984…if you get my drift. Still though, there are glimmers of hope – ‘I’ve got the seed in my pocket….’ as in I’ve got seeds to sow, seeds to grow. Small gestures can make big changes.”

Watch the stirring new video for ‘Still Life’ here:


Still Life, the upcoming new album from ALASKALASKA, is set for release on 14th October via Marathon Artists.

Jill Goyeau
@jillybxxn

Photo Credit: Abi Sinclair