The keen reader might remember a recent feature we published about Julia Sound, Vancouver-based producer and creative with a knack for collaborative endeavours. At the time, we praised ‘One Love’ as “a call for unity and love, a strikingly unapologetic piece in what is now a gloomy, complex period.” We stand behind our words: it’s important to recognise how the project doesn’t only seek sonic rewards, but it also includes a great deal of observant lyricism and meaningful imagery. ‘midlife’ is the strongest evidence of that.
Marking Julia Sound’s latest album, ‘midlife’ collects past singles and brand new songs, delivering an eclectic dive into alt-pop and electronic territories, all drenched in dreamy textures and cinematic tones. Alongside Lin Gardiner (as Julia Sound is known by day), the record features frequent collaborators Yo Megasonic, Dolly De Guerre, Keely Halward, Kinnie Star, and Cleo Hilton, with guitar appearances from Cat Hiltz. Under Gardiner’s attentive direction, a wealth of hip-hop-coded vocals and soulful hooks is laid upon blissful pop arrangements and spacious soundscapes. ‘Cars Crush’ is an example of the many creative ways Julia Sound treats vocals, here wrapped in angelic reverbs and hazy harmonies.
Out now via Boomsmack Records, ‘midlife’ functions as further confirmation of Gardiner’s extensive, lifelong commitment to music and sound. Born in England, Julia Sound has subsequently made a name for herself in the Canadian game and TV industries, all areas that have kept Lin busy for the past twenty years. Now turning her attention towards original music and her own project, it’s safe to say that Julia Sound hasn’t lost the motivation yet…
Recommended! Discover ‘midlife’ now: