Exploring the contrasting prospects of false dreams and found happiness, This Parlor Trick Life is the new album from Luke Beling.

By Graeme Smith

Beling’s new album blends brightness and darkness, typified by soul-searching opener Shining Like The Sun. The track is one of two collaborations across the album, featuring the talents of Silicone Boone. Crashing is the other which sees Beling join forces with Joseph Pennell.

Otherwise it’s the straight work of Beling and his producer Tyler Fortier. The pair wanted to achieve a bigger band sound than previous release, 2023’s A Stone in the Mouth of the Ocean, and they’ve done so. At times, things feel Springsteen-esque, particularly during American Dreams and Every Now and Not Yet.

There are gentler moments too, reminiscent of Beling’s previous work, such as the folksy Journey To The Moon and A Little Living Tonight. Other highlights include the soaring and anthemic crescendo of Silence Underneath and the poetic introspection of One More Day To Come.

It’s great to hear from Beling again, and I was fascinated by his change in sound. Yet, the core of what makes his music great remains – emotional, relatable storytelling and the ability to cut right to the heart of the matter. With age comes wisdom, and life has a way of letting us see it in different ways. This Parlor Trick Life captures the concept beautifully.

The album is out now and you can give it a listen below.