Lost In Backward Motion

Anaiis “Ultraviolet, Counts”

The music in “Ultraviolet, Counts” seems to move gracefully through some resistance, like a trained swimmer moving against a tide. This suits the lyrical theme perfectly as Anaiis attempts to talk someone, anyone out of suicidal ideation by appealing to rational thought – you don’t know everything, positive outcomes are as possible as negative outcomes, rebirth comes along with “research.” Her phrasing conveys equal measures of empathy and tough love, a little judgmental (“martyrdom is for cowards”) but mostly compassionate and respectful of this person’s intelligence. The arrangement contrasts a staccato organ part with more subtle and fluid counterpoints in vocal harmony, bass, and horns that seem to ripple out and around the blunt impact of the beat. Everything in the song backs up the central feeling: direct and firm, but thoughtful and flexible.

Buy it from Bandcamp.