Album Review: Lights Brings Enlightenment in Midnight Machines

Lights is an intriguing artist because she has done a complete 180 from her original music. Initially, she had a virtual look and sound that drew visions from a video game. Thus, her new acoustic album, Midnight Machines, seems like it is another artist. Yet, I can assure this new artist is both welcomed and welcoming.

Lights is a good name for this artist. Her breathy sound and intimate strumming of her guitar appear like that of an enlightened person. The softness of her music is what is so attractive, and offers spirituality to her sound that one might find in a guru. It has a grace that is powerful and potent through its subtlety. Thus, what makes her transition so interesting is that she has gone from a synth-electric artist to a mindful, quiet one.

Meteorites

There is an openness and sweetness to Midnight Machines that will certainly gain her a following. The album is an acoustic version of six tracks from the previously released Little Machines and two new ones “Head Cold” and “Follow Me Down.” Yet, there is nothing midnight about this album. Instead, she comes off like the dawn with delicate riffs and empowering lyrics that make her songs ones to play when you want to feel encouraged. “Meteorites” is a perfect example of the kindness that her new music exudes. The acoustics make the lyric, “We are going to see greater heights” brim with hope. Midnight Machines feels like a rediscovery of Little Machines, which is why it appears like a new, fresh album. Now you can hear, more intensely, the layers of heart and beautiful words that go into her song writing.

When you listen to Midnight Machines you feel moved by its goal to touch your heart and make it feel a little less lonely. I really am excited to see her further the acoustic loveliness she has achieved with this album. It is like a pleasant stream of music flowing through your ears. Moreover, the fluidity of it all certifies its mission to make audiences feel insightful and included. Her recent journey into motherhood definitely played a role in the turn of her creativity and the vivid detailing of this album. She attributes her son as the reason she takes life easier while also feeling reinvigorated. The album, itself, is a summation of those two words: easy and reinvigorating.

Check out her newly released album here, and go see her perform On May 4 at The Marlin Room in Webster Hall in New York City. Her official website.