Characters from singer-songwriter Flo Perlin is a release not to be missed.
Each track is a part of a puzzle, and that puzzle is a project about self. An album about introspection, we learn about Perlin as she learns about herself. And there is a lot to learn. From busking around the world to becoming an ordained Buddhist nun in Myanmar to unexpectedly finding her life changed when diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, Perlin, who has Iraqi and Belarisuan heritage, has a lot of stories to tell, as well as family stories, too - track 'Baghdad' explores her family's roots, the sort of lives they led and how that impacted on her own life, a tale of what if.
Characters opens with 'Slowly Unfold' and it is the perfect choice for an opener as it immediately sets the tone. This is what is so great with this album - each song belongs, there's no filler and no words are wasted. And 'Slowly Unfold' lets the listener know what lies ahead, as Perlin sings about a painter who learns about life through her art, which is exactly what Characters is about. The painter 'painted pictures of the stories that were never told' much like how Perlin is about to express herself through music.
'Back in Time' is about childhood, and how childhood has changed over the years. A 90s kid, Perlin grew up in the generation when playing outside with other kids was typical. It was a simpler time, and the nostalgia for that care-free time in her life seeps through.
Following is 'Hold Up Your Head Child'. Despite the title, this one is not about childhood but, rather, was written by Perlin after years spent in and out of hospital for her autoimmune disease. To have this track after 'Back in Time' is a powerful juxtaposition, as it highlights life's struggles, struggles that most children would never think about it, contrasting with the pure innocence of childhood.
'Words' is about, well, words and how difficult they can be to get right, something that I think everyone can relate to - 'sometimes I talk, though I don't understand.' And 'Pine' is about objects, and how they can stir memories and provide comfort, as explored through Perlin's own love for Pine trees.
'Blue Is The Color' continues the theme of nature, connecting this thread with previous themes of relationships with others, as well as with ones self with the imagery of roots.
The closing track 'Move Through The Waves' is especially striking, as its the only number on which Perlin plays the piano, the instrument on which she first started writing music on at the age of just nine. Its a track that brings things full circle, as she reflects on the characters within herself. Given the stories she's told and explored throughout the rest of the album, it seems fitting to end here.
Out this Friday, Characters is a fine collection of songs - be sure to check it out.
- 4TRUK.
