Hailing from Berlin, Anastave, a remarkable songwriter and producer, has been causing ripples in the music scene for a while now. No strangers to Lock Mag, we’ve previously featured her single ‘Medicine.’ Having just released her full-length album ‘I Don’t Want You in the Light’ we decided to take a closer look into her latest 9-track offering.
The album gracefully commences with her latest single, ‘Every Night,’ a captivating opener that, while not necessarily representative of the entirety, exemplifies her commitment to showcasing the multifaceted facets of her songwriting prowess. Despite its divergence from the rest of the album’s tone, we admire her artistic boldness. This track, slightly more approachable, offers a glimpse into an alternate direction she might have taken, graced with infectious melodies, exceptional production, and a definite must-listen quality.
The subsequent trio of songs are composed of earlier releases by this electronic artist. Of particular favor is ‘Medicine,’ previously highlighted, alongside ‘Better’ and ‘Fake Smile.’ These double A side singles rekindle the essence of what drew us to Anastave in the first place, while simultaneously demonstrating her refusal to be confined by predictability. Her ability to traverse diverse musical landscapes is evident as she navigates from one direction to another.
Delving deeper into the album, we encounter ‘Cover the Dust,’ which, much like ‘Every Night,’ maintains a similar tempo but under a more somber atmosphere. Introducing novel sonic elements and impeccable background vocals, it leaves us yearning for more. The slower-paced entries, ‘Sacrifice’ and ‘Closer,’ inject a refreshing change, effectively spotlighting the thematic coherence she’s meticulously curated in her track selection.
In a surge of experimentation, ‘Enemy’ unravels with a distinct sonic palette, revealing meticulous planning and a thoughtfully constructed soundscape. This is a piece that comes alive imaginatively during live performances, immersing the audience in Anastave’s captivating trance. Concluding the album is ‘Sympathy,’ an introspective finale that resonates with relatable lyrics, skillfully drawing us back into contemplation.
Although concise at just nine tracks, ‘I Don’t Want You In The Light’ stands as an immensely impactful album, packing a sonorous punch. Its contours are well-defined, a true labor of art that radiates the dedication and time invested in its creation. From the very first note to the closing one, this album offers an enchanting journey. Anastave’s trajectory appears promising, leaving us with great expectations.