Despite its volatility, excruciation, wonderful, and cruel nature, desire is the most powerful force in our lives. Caroline Polachek has embarked on a journey to capture the essence of Desire and its profound impact on her latest album, Desire, I Want to Turn Into You.
Inspired by her travels through the idyllic Mediterranean and experiences in places like Rome and Sicily, Polachek brings the beauty of these breathtaking locales to life in her music. Her Desire for transformation and escapism is evident in the album’s portrayal of tropical settings, red sunsets, and nature’s raw, chaotic energy.
Unlike her previous work, which focused on the transient nature of existence and constant movement, Desire roots itself in a more grounded sense of place. The music immerses listeners in a vivid and colorful world, where the tropical basslines and atmospheric sounds transport them to mysterious and exotic locations.
Beyond being a singer and songwriter, Polachek also emerges as a philosopher and observer of contemporary reality. Dealing with personal loss and the harsh realities of the pandemic, her music reflects the fragility of life and the destructive sides of human existence.
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The love explored in Desire is not calm and steady but a passionate and all-consuming immersion. The album title, I Want to Turn Into You, speaks volumes about the longing to lose oneself in the depths of love. Polachek’s evocative lyrics paint a picture of overwhelming Desire and surrender, where love becomes an intense and transformative force.
In songs like “Pretty in Possible,” Polachek delves into abstract narratives and experimental composition. Embracing ambiguity and depth, she challenges the conventional obsession with literalism in art, creating an enigmatic and captivating musical experience.
One of the most striking features of Polachek’s album “Desire” is the replication of the theme of mania in the songs’ twisted and irregular structures. “Blood and Butter” goes through a fickle transition between day and night, ending with an epic bagpipe climax borrowed from “The Sensual World.” On the other hand, “I Believe” features breakbeat pop elements punctured by glitchy, adrenal breaths that give it a cyborg-like quality.
The production in “Desire” is incredibly diverse, covering a range of genres from trip-hop to new wave, trance to flamenco. This showcases Polachek’s deep understanding of the pop archive as she pursues a new personal style. Each creation in the album is marvelously unique, paying tribute to her mercurial father with petulant white-girl rapping and cheesy stadium-rock guitar, and even using a 1970s young adult novel about an immortal family as inspiration for a shimmering Enya ballad.
The cumulative effect of “Desire” can be likened to staring up at a giant fresco, where the intricate details make it hard to decide where to focus. Various elements and flourishes appear throughout the album, creating a dynamic listening experience. Whether it’s the wings flapping, whistles beckoning, or bells chiming, every detail is meticulously crafted to captivate the audience.
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One of the most defining aspects of “Desire” is the dynamism of Polachek’s vocals. Drawing from years of bel canto operatic training, her delivery is filled with conviction and passion. Even with guest spots from acclaimed artists like Grimes and Dido, it’s clear that Polachek’s voice takes center stage, showcasing its versatility and range as it soars, swoops, and bubbles throughout the album.
The album’s closer, “Billions,” is a testament to all the best attributes of “Desire.” The song, a humid tabla-pop track with medieval sound effects and an over-the-top drone squiggle, immerses the listener in the throes of a shaky love affair. Polachek’s lyrical prowess shines through as she paints vivid images with succulent details, evoking the tangy taste of skin and the vernacular of a seaman.
Polachek’s unique songwriting and performances are evident throughout “Desire.” Her ability to shift octaves seamlessly and infuse ordinary words with a strange mouthfeel adds depth and intrigue to her music. Whether it’s the scenes of seduction or anguish, the listener is taken on a journey filled with emotional highs and lows.
“Billions” ends bittersweet, with Polachek confessing, “I never felt so close to you,” echoing the longing and unfulfilled Desire that permeates the album. Ultimately, “Desire” leaves the listener yearning for more, never quite reaching total fulfillment.
“Desire” is a masterful showcase of Polachek’s artistry, demonstrating her diverse musical influences and unique songwriting style. From the twisted structures of her songs to the dynamic production and captivating vocals, the album is a testament to her creativity and conviction.
