Indie rock singer-songwriter Lael Neale continues to captivate with her introspective and poignant music. Following the release of her critically acclaimed album Star Eaters Delight and the standalone single “I’ll Be Your Star,” Neale has returned with a new track titled “Electricity.” This song, co-written with her frequent collaborator Guy Blakeslee, delves into the disorienting yet grounding experience of losing electricity, exploring themes of dependency, withdrawal, and the potential for renewal in a tech-saturated world.
The genesis of “Electricity” came during a severe ice storm that struck Virginia a few winters ago, leaving Neale and her family without power for five days on their farm. Reflecting on this experience, Neale described a profound sense of withdrawal from modern conveniences, such as lighting, heating, and refrigeration—necessities often taken for granted in daily life. This sudden unplugging from the grid led her to contemplate the overwhelming dependence society has developed on electricity and the broader implications of this reliance.
Neale expressed the duality of her emotions during the power outage: “I felt a range of sensations from utter emptiness to complete liberation.” This oscillation between discomfort and freedom became the foundation for “Electricity.” The song serves as a meditation on the concept of being “electrified beings,” where modern life is intricately tied to the flow of electricity. Neale suggests that in moments of power loss, there is an opportunity to reset and gain a new perspective on our lives and dependencies.
“Electricity” showcases Neale’s talent for blending introspective lyricism with evocative musical arrangements. The song carries an old-school, exploratory vibe reminiscent of Joni Mitchell, a nod to the rich tradition of singer-songwriters who delve deep into the human experience. The track’s instrumentation features organ-drones and shakers, evoking the lush and hypnotic soundscapes of bands like Stereolab. This combination creates a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere that complements the song’s contemplative themes.
The arrangement of “Electricity” is sparse yet immersive, with Neale’s haunting vocals leading the listener through her narrative. The use of organ-drones provides a steady, almost meditative backdrop, while the shakers add a subtle rhythmic texture that enhances the song’s introspective nature. This minimalist approach allows Neale’s lyrical exploration of modernity and disconnection to shine through, making the song both a personal reflection and a broader commentary on contemporary life.
Neale also took the reins in directing the music video for “Electricity.” The video features a desaturated aesthetic, aligning with the song’s themes of withdrawal and introspection. In the video, Neale dons a mirrorball unitard, performing choreographed dance steps that emphasize the song’s exploratory nature. The choice of a mirrorball unitard—a symbol of light and reflection—underscores the duality of the modern experience Neale describes: both dazzling and distancing.
The visual element of the video adds another layer to the song’s exploration of electricity and its absence. The choreography, set against a minimalist backdrop, mirrors the simplicity and liberation Neale felt during the power outage. The desaturated color palette further emphasizes the sense of disconnection from the vibrant, electrified world, inviting viewers to reflect on their own dependencies and the potential for clarity in moments of unplugging.
With “Electricity,” Lael Neale continues to build on her reputation as a thought-provoking artist capable of weaving complex emotional landscapes into her music. The song is not just a reflection on a temporary power outage but a broader exploration of how deeply intertwined our lives are with modern technology. Neale’s ability to turn a personal experience into a universal message speaks to her strength as a songwriter and storyteller.
As society continues to grapple with the rapid advancement of technology and its implications, “Electricity” serves as a reminder of the value in moments of stillness and disconnection. Through her music, Neale encourages listeners to contemplate the effects of constant connectivity and to find balance in a world that is always on. Her new single stands as a testament to the power of introspection and the creative potential that can emerge from life’s unexpected pauses.