Lily of the Sea - "Slow Violence"

Photo by Ella Boyle

Lily of the Sea is the project of mixed media artist and musician Lily McMahan, based in New York City. Inspired by the sonic and emotional rawness of 90s grunge & visual legacies of folk art and mythology, she weaves together a fascinating and immersive universe exploring the lines between human and environment, collective unconscious in bodily experience, climate grief, and femininity. She works with material as a conduit to fuse meaning with medium, employing natural dyes, second hand textiles, and slow making techniques in creating all of the visuals which accompany her music.

The New York City independent music scene has long been a fertile ground for artists pushing boundaries and exploring diverse sonic territories. The arrival of Lily McMahan, under the moniker Lily of the Sea, adds another intriguing voice to this landscape with her debut album, "Slow Violence," released on April 12th. Rooted in the foundational sounds and emotional intensity of 90s grunge and alternative rock, Lily of the Sea's artistic vision extends beyond mere imitation, hinting at a unique synthesis with the visual narratives of folk art and mythology. This confluence of influences suggests an album that aims to resonate on both a visceral and a more subtly symbolic level.  

The very name "Lily of the Sea" evokes a sense of natural beauty intertwined with a hint of melancholy and perhaps even untamed power. This moniker, juxtaposed with the starkness of the album title "Slow Violence," creates an immediate tension, a push and pull between the delicate and the destructive. This inherent duality could very well be a central theme explored throughout the album's twelve tracks. The inspiration drawn from the "sonic and emotional rawness of 90s grunge" sets a clear expectation for a certain level of unvarnished energy and lyrical introspection. Think of the distorted guitars and cathartic vocal deliveries of bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Hole, artists who channeled angst and societal unease into powerful musical statements. Lily of the Sea's work likely taps into a similar vein, offering a contemporary perspective on these enduring themes.

However, the added layer of "visual legacies of folk art and mythology" suggests that "Slow Violence" won't be a purely straightforward grunge revival. Folk art often carries narratives steeped in tradition, symbolism, and a connection to the land and human experience. Mythology, on the other hand, delves into archetypes, legends, and the fundamental questions of human existence. The integration of these visual and narrative elements into a grunge framework could result in a rich tapestry of lyrical themes and sonic textures. Perhaps the raw energy of the music serves as a backdrop for stories drawn from folklore, or maybe the lyrical content explores mythological themes through a modern, alternative lens. This blending of seemingly disparate influences is what makes Lily of the Sea's debut particularly promising.  

The album's tracklist offers further clues into the potential sonic and thematic landscape of "Slow Violence." "The Fruit Tree" could be a metaphor for growth, temptation, or the cyclical nature of life. "Dear Trudence" immediately calls to mind the Beatles' song, potentially hinting at a cover or, more likely, a thematic resonance with isolation or a yearning for connection. The title track, "Slow Violence," suggests a focus on the insidious and gradual forms of harm, whether personal, societal, or environmental. "Hey Now" feels like a direct address, perhaps a burst of raw energy or a call to attention. "Delicate" offers a moment of contrast, suggesting vulnerability or fragility within the album's broader sonic palette.

Photo by Lily McMahan

Continuing our exploration of Lily of the Sea's debut, "Slow Violence," the middle section of the tracklist – "Sister's Web," "HoneyComb," "Forest Song," and "Fell A Star" – further deepens the sense of layered meaning hinted at by the artist's inspirations. "Sister's Web" evokes imagery of connection, perhaps familial bonds or intricate, perhaps even ensnaring, relationships. "HoneyComb" suggests sweetness, industry, and the complex structure of community or the self. "Forest Song" clearly points towards the natural world, a recurring motif in folk art and mythology, potentially imbued with symbolic weight. "Fell A Star" is a particularly evocative title, suggesting a descent from grace, a moment of loss, or perhaps a unique and impactful event.

These titles, considered in the context of a grunge/alternative rock album, create an intriguing juxtaposition. Grunge often dealt with themes of alienation, disillusionment, and societal decay, often expressed through direct and sometimes abrasive language. The incorporation of these more metaphorical and nature-based titles suggests that Lily of the Sea might be exploring these darker themes through a more poetic and symbolic lens, adding a layer of nuance that could set her apart from more straightforward genre contemporaries.  

The final quartet of tracks – "Ghost Orchid," "Wane/Wax," and "Again" – offers further possibilities for interpretation. "Ghost Orchid" brings to mind a rare and perhaps ephemeral beauty, hinting at themes of fragility or hidden depths. "Wane/Wax" clearly speaks to cycles, the ebb and flow of energy, emotion, or even life itself. This cyclical theme could be reflected in the album's sonic architecture, perhaps through recurring musical motifs or dynamic shifts. Finally, the simple yet resonant "Again" could suggest repetition, a return to familiar patterns, or a sense of unresolved issues.

As an independent artist based in the fiercely competitive New York City music scene, Lily of the Sea faces the challenge of carving out a unique identity within a crowded field. The decision to draw inspiration from both the raw energy of 90s grunge and the more nuanced symbolism of folk art and mythology is a bold one, potentially appealing to listeners who appreciate both sonic intensity and lyrical depth. The success of "Slow Violence" will likely hinge on how effectively Lily of the Sea manages to synthesize these seemingly disparate influences into a cohesive and compelling artistic statement.

The production quality of an independent release is always a crucial factor. Will "Slow Violence" embrace the raw, unpolished aesthetic often associated with grunge, or will it aim for a more refined sound while still retaining the genre's inherent energy? The answer to this question will significantly impact the overall listening experience and how the album is received by both genre purists and those seeking a more contemporary take on alternative rock.

Photo by Ella Boyle

Ultimately, without the ability to listen to "Slow Violence," this review remains an exploration of potential and anticipation. However, the provided information paints a compelling picture of an artist with a clear vision and a willingness to explore unconventional sonic and thematic territories. Lily of the Sea's grounding in 90s grunge offers a familiar foundation, while the infusion of folk art and mythological influences suggests a desire to transcend genre conventions and create something uniquely her own.

The debut album is a crucial moment for any artist, a statement of intent that introduces their creative world to a wider audience. "Slow Violence" promises to be more than just a collection of songs; it appears to be an exploration of contrasts – the raw and the refined, the delicate and the destructive, the personal and the mythical. The lyrical themes, hinted at by the evocative track titles, suggest a depth that could reward repeated listens, inviting listeners to delve into the layers of meaning woven into the music.  

The independent nature of the release underscores the artist's commitment to her vision, free from the constraints of major label expectations. This often allows for greater artistic freedom and a more direct connection between the artist and their audience. The challenge, of course, lies in reaching that audience amidst the vast ocean of independent music. Word-of-mouth, online presence, and live performances will be crucial in building a following for Lily of the Sea and "Slow Violence."

Written by Mckenzie Blasi