Aliénore is a French-British alternative folk singer songwriter based in Berlin, Germany who I first discovered for this blog last June through her ethereal track Paradise Lost. She’s now followed it up with a debut EP that gives us a richer taste of her self-styled “witchy” pop. It’s called Métamorphose.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Hannah Brandes

Métamorphose is comprised of lyrics sung in English and French, and takes inspiration from Greek mythology, the natural world and themes of female empowerment. Though its lyrically dense, there’s a spacey lightness to Aliénore’s compositions that means they feel accessible to all.

The EP opens with its title track. Against a stripped-back arrangement of echoing organ, Aliénore’s unique vocals deliver a rousing story. The track slowly builds with electronic elements and a feeling of ecstasy. It’s a beautiful introduction to what’s to come.

The Water Diviner follows on with plucked harp and folk-tale-esque lyrics. There’s an eeriness to it that invokes cautionary tales of old, and the lyrics paint a wonderful picture of the world in which the story takes place. Bringing to minds the likes of Kate Bush and Joanna Newsom, it’s a highlight.

Black Butterflies is an emotionally-rich bass-y piano led number which continues to the theme of transformation that Métamorphose introduced. Salt Of The Earth closes the EP with a diversion into Portishead-esque trip hop. There’s a dark sensuality to it that makes it another highlight.

With this EP, Aliénore has created a sonic daydream. The lyrics are well-thought-out and image-laden, and they really prick at the imaginative parts of your brain so pleasantly. I listen to a lot of music for this blog, and nothing excites me more than when I discover an artist who is truly innovative, and not afraid to delve deep into their own story. That’s exactly what you get with Aliénore and Métamorphose. I cannot recommend this EP enough. You can give it a listen below.