At just 21 years old, Slovakian singer-songwriter Karin Ann presents a debut album that belies her age. “Through The Telescope” is a haunting exploration of human experience, brimming with a depth of observation and storytelling that feels far beyond her years.
In tracks like “Pile of Bones,” Ann weaves macabre imagery into her music, delivering lyrics that paint vivid pictures of darkness and decay. Yet, despite the grim subject matter, her ethereal vocals imbue the songs with a fairytale-like quality, reminiscent of wisps of smoke swirling around a hidden truth. There’s a knowingness to her voice, reminiscent of indie darlings like Faye Webster and Frankie Cosmos, adding to the album’s intriguing blend of light and shadow.
Throughout the album, Ann grapples with themes of loss, faith, and the transition from childhood to adulthood. On tracks like “The Band Keeps Playing,” she delicately explores the pain of hiding one’s struggles behind a facade, while on “Olivia,” she crafts a tender queer love song. Each song is a glimpse into Ann’s emotional landscape, rendered with delicate guitar melodies and twinkling instrumentation that enhance the lyrical depth.
Collaborating with producer Benjamin Lazar Davis, known for his work with Maya Hawke, Ann crafts an intricate sound that balances fragility with sharp edges. Davis’s influence is felt in the album’s lush production, which never overwhelms Ann’s intimate songwriting but instead provides a rich backdrop for her storytelling.
Standout tracks like “A Song for the Moon” and “My Best Work of Art” showcase Ann’s strength as a songwriter, with poignant lyrics that resonate long after the music fades. Through “Through The Telescope,” Karin Ann emerges as a confident and unflinching artist, weaving her personal struggles into potent songwriting that spans genres and emotional landscapes.
In conclusion, “Through The Telescope” is a remarkable debut that heralds the arrival of a precocious talent in the world of folk-pop. Karin Ann’s ability to navigate darkness with grace and vulnerability marks her as an artist to watch in the years to come.