Blues-rock artist Lena Morris just dropped new EP Rouge, deeply rooted in self-expression and acceptance, embracing tarot guidance. Self-taught and with experience across the globe but now residing in Paris, the singer and bassist embraces her identity with a fully authentic line-up – no autotune, no AI and no digital instruments.
Based on a five-card cross tarot spread, the EP itself is the final card, depicting a complete musical and emotional journey. Where the spiritual practice of tarot is intended to assist the subject through insight into the past, present and future, it is important to remember that tarot readings are personal and interpretations depend on who is reading your cards.
Buying A Donkey
Stemming from vibration and introspection cards that signify energy states and self-reflection, ‘Buying A Donkey’ interprets this as a wish for freedom from society’s expectations. Epitomising Morris’ authentic ideals the song starts us off strong with lush vocal harmonies and gorgeous bass inflections on the off-beat, symbolising lack of conformity. Easy-listening yet legitimately toe-tapping, ‘Buying A Donkey’ draws you into the album and makes sure you’ll stay.
Dancing In Hell
The final song on Morris’ EP, ‘Dancing In Hell’, plays on the traditional method in which directionality of the card denotes whether the subject should look to the past or future. As can be seen on the album artwork, drawn by Morris, the bottom card is facing left, meaning it is looking to the past. Translated here, it signifies exploring the singer’s current and past flaws, the song resulting in acceptance and reconciliation with oneself. With almost Mumford & Sons atmosphere in the toe-tapping blues-yet-inspirational accompaniment, the occasional well-placed dissonant harmony and sense of real humanity, ‘Dancing In Hell’ is a journey through something everyone has experienced, wrapped in music that is simply beautiful.
From the moment you hear Morris’ signature classic blues, leaning into smooth jazz, voice, Rouge captures you heart, body and soul. A vibrant mix of retro disco, softer piano-based and Morris’ signature blues-rock styling, listening to Rouge embodies tarot as an almost spiritual experience.
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