A haunting dream-pop entrancement shows throughout Halo, the new album from Mary Knoblock, an artist based in Portland, OR. Detailed soundscapes, fond of textural additions and piano glistening, also emphasize a neo-classical appeal alongside serene vocal enchantments. A spontaneous, emotive appeal lingers as well; most of the tracks were recorded in one or two takes, and the result is befitting of an arsenal valuing structural patience and atmospheric precision — resulting in an album with an abundance of riveting moments.

The title track opens Halo with a ghostly intrigue. Strings enter alongside submerged vocals, as prancing piano trickles appear with sporadic enticement. References to the afterlife reinforce themes running throughout, notably nostalgia for better days, the tragedy of loss, and pondering visions of life beyond death. “Heaven’s Bride” follows with elegant captivation, as gentle piano tones complement subdued vocals that emit a myriad of melancholic emotions, notably heartbreak, grief, and sadness.

“Today” explores suffering and loss within a touching minimalist form. Quaint piano and submerged vocals assemble with moments of spine-tingling ascension, maintaining a consistently specter-like lingering throughout. Halo is a compelling success from Mary Knoblock.

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“Halo” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.

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