Paola House – Dark Desires (2021)
The brainchild of singer-songwriter Adam Townsend, Paola House is a strong nod to the indie-rock bands of the 90s. The idea for the moniker stems from a bright blue sign above an abandoned industrial building reading ‘Paola House’. Instead of merely seeing this sign and building as a dishevelled property in East London, Townsend found a metaphorical connection exposing existential truths in the 21st century.
Despite being a rather new, up-and-coming artist, Townsend is already receiving critical acclaim from YMX, Wolf In A Suit, Less Than 1000 Followers, Indie O’Clock and several playlist curators. Taken from his upcoming five-track EP, the latest addition to Paola House’s discography is ‘Dark Desires’.
The band name may come from a metaphysical existence, but there is a far more personal element to ‘Dark Desires’. Touching on issues of relationships, growth and inner turmoil, the single follows the tale of two people who “…have exited the prime of their youth and find it hard to come to terms with life choices that have consistently left them in undesirable circumstances.” Brutally honest, the genuine narrative engages listeners (particularly those of a certain age) enchanting them with a raw soundscape.
While the combination of guitar, drums and gruff vocals adopts a somewhat nostalgic melancholy, it is the lyricism that really prompts the reflective insight of ‘Dark Desires’. The exploration of age and its consequences does appear rather “scary” unveiling the complexities of becoming older; however, there is sentimental empowerment within the harmonic melody. The protagonists show they understand the changes, realise the challenges to come and accept the reality of the situation.
Penned during the first stages of the UK Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, ‘Dark Desires’ embraces the personality and creative thoughts of Townsend magnificently. Paola House has several singles available on Spotify (all part of the upcoming EP) and I can’t wait to hear more from this talented artist.
For more from Paola House check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
