Marble Raft – Marble Halls (2025)
Inspired by oddities like “…old maps, stories of exploration and exotic flowers”, the duo Marble Raft might be the eclectic storyteller, but their stories are intoxicating in their obscurity. Formed by Swedish friends Gabrielle Baker and Olle Söderström, a mutual passion for the naïve and ethereal brims in a tender dream-pop sound. Yet, as the ethereal haziness of their synth-driven pop calls to the dream-pop tone, there is a swirl of genres making Marble Raft definable but undefinable. This is my introduction to Marble Raft, but they have been turning international heads since their formation in 2021. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Marble Halls’.
Taken from their upcoming album Dear Infrastructure, set for release in February 2025, ‘Marble Halls’ is a wistful blend of vintage synth-pop and alternative pop; however, while the track breathes life into nostalgic 80s pop sounds, there is a contemporary edginess peeking through with indie-pop heaviness.
For me, one of the most intriguing aspects of ‘Marble Halls’ is its melodic duality. Not only is there a retro but refreshingly new element to the track, there is a wash of kaleidoscopic complexity within what might be considered barebones simplicity. A rush of synths melds with dreamy guitars lifting you above fluffy sonic clouds while retaining an anchored tone in its heavier pop sentimentality. Add Baker and Söderström’s rich vocals, and you have a comfortable embrace navigating paths of vulnerability, fragility and eerie haunting.
Melodically, the track is outstanding and really breath-taking; however, it is the poetic lyricism and theme that outlines Marble Raft’s obscurity. Dear Infrastructure presents the path of teenage protagonists exploring the world and encountering its triumphs and tragedies. ‘Marble Halls’ is the brink of discovery in the teenager’s path. Marble Raft explains:
“With ‘Marble Halls’ we wanted to bring the listener along on a voyage of discovery through grandiose scenes, though fragile and on the brink of collapse. The young protagonists explore halls of marble while satellites collide in the sky. It’s sort of an eerie house tour framed by energetic indie pop.”
Find out more about Marble Raft on their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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