Soela – Dark Portrait

Soela, the DJ and producer alias of Elina Shorokhova, channels her deep musical roots into Dark Portrait, an album that reflects both personal and global turmoil. Transitioning from her classical background into the electronic realm, Soela crafts a sonic journey that resonates with emotional depth and technical precision. The album begins with 'Unsuitable,' a track steeped in melancholic trip-hop vibes, setting an introspective tone. As Soela navigates the complex emotions surrounding her country's invasion of Ukraine, her music becomes a therapeutic outlet. This emotional intensity flows through tracks like 'Through the Windows' (featuring Francis Harris and Philipp Priebe) and 'Drowning' (with Module One), where intricate beats and ambient textures intertwine seamlessly. 'Spirits' and 'Lost In The Fog' offer haunting soundscapes that draw listeners into Soela's world, while 'February Is Not Going To Be Forever,' a collaboration with Lawrence, brings a dancefloor energy laced with a sense of urgency. The title track, 'Dark Portrait,' melds dubby rhythms with poignant melodies while the lead single, 'Even If I Ask You Stay,' showcases Soela's poignant vocal delivery amid a lush arrangement, addressing themes of escape and healing. The album concludes with 'The Darkest Hour Before Sunrise,' a hopeful and ethereal piece, blending subdued keys and strings with a sense of renewal. Dark Portrait is a deeply personal and powerful album, where Soela's rich musicality and emotional insight shine through, offering listeners both solace and inspiration.