After the success of her debut single, “BABY YOU CAN HOLD ME,” Norwegian-Pakistani artist CRYBABY CLAIRE is set to drop her follow-up track, “BLUE,” on September 20th. This synth-infused song delves deep into themes of vulnerability and self-worth, setting the stage for her forthcoming EP, YOU SHOULD ALL BE CRYING, slated for release on October 25th.
Drawing inspiration from acts like Farah, Chromatics, and Fabiana Palladino, “BLUE” delivers an ethereal, synth-driven soundscape. CRYBABY CLAIRE’s enchanting, naive vocals meld seamlessly with the minimalist arrangement, crafting an utterly captivating listening experience. The track has been expertly mixed by Vilde Ilkama Nupen and mastered by Berlin-based Queer Ear Mastering, the same dynamic duo behind her debut single.
Inspired by the cold, solitary Norwegian winters, the song touches on the longing to be prioritized. Speaking on the track, CRYBABY CLAIRE reveals, “It’s about the delicate longing to be put first and voicing one’s needs. Although it might seem like a lot to ask for, it might not be if you ask the right person”.
A visually arresting music video accompanies the single. Set on the picturesque Norwegian west coast, the video centres on CRYBABY CLAIRE’s surreal portrayal of professional mourners. Filmed with a nostalgic, lo-fi aesthetic using a 2000s camcorder, the visuals feature the artist draped in flowing blue silk, performing amidst cows and the vast ocean expanse. Her performance channels the public expression of grief characteristic of professional mourners, adding a dreamlike, evocative twist.
Making a video to your music is an opportunity to add new layers. I researched the tradition of professional mourners and was mesmerized by a video of elderly women, who looked like nuns, crying at a funeral. It made me think about how that too is a performance, one that adds value and can be cathartic. I wanted to put my own spin on it and create my own kind of professional mourner.
CRAYBABY CLAIRE is the solo endeavour of Namra Beatrix Saleem, known from FLTY BRGR GRL. Combining minimalism, infectious synthpop, and a touch of gothic mystique, she weaves together the melancholic with upbeat synth lines and danceable rhythms, drawing from the sombre inspiration of professional mourners to create her unique sound.
Follow
Artist @crybaby_claire
Mixer @elektrovildz
Mastering @queerearmastering
Photos @meeramanjitkaur
Artwork @atomprogram
Pre-save BLUE here: https://crybabyclaire.ffm.to/blue
