Album Review: Weyes Blood - Titanic Rising

Weyes Blood’s fourth album finds the artist behind the project, Natalie Mering, continuing to blossom in the sweet shimmer of her dreamy pop songs. A definite advance on 2016's Front Row Seat To Earth, Weyes Blood delves into vintage pop influences to deliver a sound completely timeless in its approach. 

There is a stately magnificence about this album which sees Weyes Blood building ornate orchestral pop symphonies for listeners to drift on, as captivating layers of strings and synths swirl to dramatic effect. There was always a touch of Karen Carpenter about Mering’s vocals, but those kinds of references are less obvious on this album. Artfully conceived and constructed, it feels like Weyes Blood has taken more control over Titanic Rising, making bigger and bolder choices on the intricate details. 

In these dark times, Mering’s lyricism flickers with the light of hope. Climate change, and its impending apocalyptic consequences, is a big issue close to Weyes Blood's heart, but her reflections on the topic take place on a more personal level. It’s a scale that individuals can understand without being overwhelmed. It also gives Weyes Blood the opportunity to be more poetic in her musings. 

The love songs come with a sense of alienation, reflecting how isolated we have become because of online interactions. Titanic Rising at once addresses disaster and the hope of rebirth. While lead singles Andromeda and Movies are stunners, Titanic Rising is a consistently brilliant listen.