The rich sound of the new album by Marissa Nadler is nearly gothic. New Radiations is full of atmospheric pop, with the singer's voice deep in a mix that's a bit otherworldly in spots. Nadler's vocals and the mix here by Randall Dunn work real magic.
"Bad Dreams Summertime" is breathy and moody as heck, while the more direct "You Called Her Camellia" earns comparisons to Julee Cruise's best material. Elsewhere, the title cut seems a cousin to recent Angel Olsen numbers, even as the more mysterious "Smoke Screen Selene" provides uniquely ethereal charms.
This might be Marissa Nadler's best record to date. How you respond to New Radiations depends upon whether you grew up with the Cocteau Twins and This Mortal Coil records spinning in your home. If you did, and if you chased after similar dark vibes as a younger listener, then lots of this Marissa Nadler record will resonate with you. It's more moody than lots I've heard this summer, and Nadler at least has a way with sort of losing herself in a song that is really appealing if you're in the right mood.
New Radiations by Marissa Nadler is out this week via Sacred Bones / Bella Union.
[Photo: Ebru Yildiz]