The Brighton based singer songwriter has captured hearts with her previous albums ‘Hold Your Mind’ (2016) and ‘Already, Always’ (2021). Her most recent single ‘Release Myself’ accompanied the announcement of her next LP, ‘Light Sleeper’. The track stands alongside ‘The Weeping’ and ‘Sylvester’ as singles preceding the album which will be released on 24th May. The record is produced by Aaron Dessner, known for his work with The National, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift. On her Instagram story Atwell discussed the meaning behind the title: ‘sleep is total surrender, and the record is about finding peace with your feelings’.
‘Release Myself’ contrasts the nostalgic and pining ‘Sylvester’ and ‘The Weeping’ with a more hopeful tone. The lyrics speak of self forgiveness: the hook ‘I can only release myself’ is followed by the understanding that Atwell has ‘got a lot to be forgiven for’. Over a wash of overlapping 90s guitar textures and rhythmic strums, the track saunters along with a fresh air of confidence. Providing a fuller mix than the previous singles, the prominent drums and lightly distorted guitar solo give the emotive and vulnerable lyrics an upbeat feel. Not only is Atwell a talented wordsmith, but she has one of those haunting voices that illustrates every lyric with sincere emotion. There is a richness and saturation to her voice that appears effortless, but is supported by an incredibly strong technique. The result is a mesmerising golden tone which allows the raw emotion to shine through every word. ‘Release Myself’ is certainly more indie than predominantly folky in sound, yet preserves Atwell’s signature soaring melodies.
Atwell also released a music video for the single, directed by Dylan Friese-Greene, in which she is illuminated by sunlight and floral graphics. There is a delicacy to the way in which the singer is silhouetted which reflects the vulnerability of the fragile lyrics, ‘in the morning you’ll be fine’.
‘Release Myself’ is an anthem of self forgiveness that signals a new era of Bess Atwell. We cannot wait to hear what the collaboration of Atwell and Dressner will bring us with ‘Light Sleeper’.
