Arlo Park’s ‘My Soft Machine’ is this summer’s breath of fresh air
Her second studio album does not disappoint.
Photo: Alex Waespi
Following the Mercury prize-winning debut album, Collapsed In Sunbeams, Arlo Parks returns with My Soft Machine. This album confirms that her talent is long-lasting and constantly progressing. With a feature from the sensational Phoebe Bridgers, the record takes you through the feels; even ones you didn’t know you had. Arlo Parks’ music speaks to the soul — and she’s here to prove it!
Opening the album is a dreamy, short track titled Bruiseless. The track centres around beautifully vulnerable lyrics, with spoken word style vocals; similar to the opening track of Collapsed In Sunbeams. Dealing with deep topics; Arlo Parks establishes from the off that her new album is an emotionally intelligent insight into her life.
The second track, Impurities, showcases Arlo’s stunning vocals as she sings lyrics of self-love such as “I radiate like a star”. A highlight of this track is definitely the groovy drums that make the song feel well-crafted and cohesive.
Devotion certainly makes you want to devote all your attention to Arlo Parks! Starting with an interesting vocal effect; showing off her talent across genres. The guitar adds an incredible depth to the song as it merges beautifully with her impressive vocal range.
The same immersive storytelling in her lyrics that was so well done on her debut album appears again in the fourth track; Blades. Arlo’s lyricism is once again complemented perfectly by her angelic high notes. This continues into track five, Purple Phase; mellow guitar is sprinkled throughout, creating an amazingly chill feel.
Weightless was the first single for My Soft Machine — I can definitely see why! The progression from her debut is illuminated in this summery track that’s bound to become a fan favourite in Arlo’s live set as she heads towards festivals and her upcoming tour. The layered vocals and groovy instrumentals blend together wonderfully.
The next track is titled Pegasus, and it features the incredibly talented support of Phoebe Bridgers. The two create an angelic sound as their vocals complement each other beautifully. Parks took to Twitter to share how she was “toying with the idea of getting a tattoo of the word funeral in honour of Phoebe’s song”. This long-term admiration for one other is evident in Pegasus as it is an amazingly cohesive track.
Dog Rose sounds like the feeling of love. It is the perfect feel-good summer song, with well-crafted guitar as a stand-out element. Followed by Puppy, a track with lyrics that are accepting of pain and troubles: “I know some things hurt forever”. Hip-Hop influences are heard in some parts of the vocals, the groovy drum beat and the synths.
Angelic vocals are a focal point of the tenth track, I’m Sorry. Coupled with vulnerable and open lyrics; contrasting the carefree feel of Dog Rose. The more spoken elements allow an insight into Arlo’s thoughts.
The penultimate track, Room (red wings), further demonstrates the stunning sound of Arlo Parks’ layered vocals, featuring arguably the most relatable lyric of this year: “I just wanna eat cake in a room with a view”. The more stripped-back ending sets us listeners up perfectly for the closing track.
Ghost is a brilliant end to My Soft Machine. The drums are a highlight once again; providing a cool groove behind the stunning vocals and the vulnerability of the lyrics are filled with hope: “Melt right into you / Let you be that glue”. Ghost is the perfect way to wrap up the album and make it feel cohesive. Arlo took to Twitter explaining, “This [Ghost] is the light to Bruiseless’ shade”.
Overall, My Soft Machine solidifies Arlo Parks’ place as one of the best musicians at the moment for crafting beautifully honest songs. Her upcoming live performances are guaranteed to further showcase her incredible talent.
My Soft Machine is out now via Transgressive Records.
