If you’ve ever wondered what the uninhibited representation of someone’s thoughts would sound like, look no further than Anjali Rose’s album ‘Shadow Works.’ The Brooklyn-based multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, filmmaker and producer has a creative style that reflects her engagement with different places, people and cultures. ‘Shadow Works’ is a 9-track album that gives us a glimpse into Anjali’s subconscious mind, which tries to make sense of prominent negative experiences of the past like trauma, abandonment and self-doubt. The beauty of the record is how it leaves you feeling inspired while addressing such deeply personal issues, convincing us that we have the strength to fight against negativity, on our own terms.
It would be hard to categorize and place Shadow Works in any particular genre. The experimental blend of musical styles is in tandem with what the album wishes to achieve. It is an honest and raw attempt at communicating the inner workings of a mind, and a person’s thought process can never be monotonous. It includes stability and chaos, energy and lethargy, hope and fear: a setting that is captured by detailed production and intricate vocals. The album opens with ‘Miedo’ which draws you in with the sincere confession, “I’m so scared…“, setting the tone for the record that follows. It ends with ‘Beautiful,’ a track that ties together everything that came before it to convey that there is only light at the end of the tunnel and you are never surrounded by only darkness. It is this dichotomy between finding hope and feeling helpless that is explored within the tracks in between through powerfully evocative sonic arrangements.
Amid the ruminations, Anjali’s creativity continues to shine through, most notably on ‘Expectations’, which features a water soundscape creating an immersive environment. It transports you to a place in your mind where you are by the ocean, introspecting without interruption. That sense of relaxation, a safe space within your own head where you can think freely, is what enables the album to become a lesson: a timeless piece of work which promises that personal growth can be achieved by facing the hardships which you feel are dragging you down.
It is not a surprise that the driving force behind Anjali Rose is a DIY ethos. ‘Shadow Works’ was an avenue for acceptance, growth, and self-discovery. This was a journey of empowerment in a world that has created additional challenges for women, queers, and mixed-race people. Living nomadically, writing and producing on her own, and ultimately crafting a project around her own vulnerabilities, Anjali Rose has been able to remind us that music can be a source of inspiration by connecting with people on a deep level and encouraging them to express themselves. If you are looking to find some peace and make sense of the confusion within your head, you should definitely give ‘Shadow Works’ a listen.