RISE

A step up from the formative content on "My Metal Mother" but not nearly as realized as "Heterotopia", Rise is a bridge between what was, and what currently is going on in the art-rock universe of Lainey Schooltree. The singing and vibe is evocative of many female-fronted powerhouse albums of yore, yet unique in its own drama-laden delivery and intimate, dusky tone. Each song feels like its own musical play, laden with smart lyricism and poetic verse.

Without going into details that would spoil the discovery for others, and without belittling the greatness of other tracks on the album, the standouts are the introspective "After You're Gone", the anthemic "Heavenside", the sultry, viscous "Let's Dance" and the haunting pseudo a capella title track, "Rise".

For those unfamiliar with Schooltree, I would recommend listening to this album first, as it will serve to make your dive into the absolutely brilliant Heterotopia even more unforgettable.