ELDR, the musical alias of Marina Elderton, has once again crafted a deeply evocative piece with her latest single, “Deer Skin.” Known for her haunting vocals and intricate sonic textures, ELDR‘s new release captivates not only through its musicality but also by addressing deeply personal themes.
“Deer Skin” begins with an enchanting blend of organic plucked textures and a hypnotic rhythm, instantly drawing listeners into ELDR‘s unique soundscape. Norwegian producer Knut Jonas Sellevold adds a layer of lo-fi beats that seamlessly intertwine with the earthy harp melodies performed by Berlin-based artist Andy Aquarius. This fusion of elements creates a sound that is both ethereal and grounded, reminiscent of Portishead, Bjork, and Joanna Newsom.
ELDR‘s vocals are the true heart of the track. Her voice, both haunting and alluring, weaves through the music with an emotional intensity that reflects her experience and artistic depth. The production is superb, with each element—vocals, harp, and beats—coming together to create a rich, immersive listening experience.
“Deer Skin” tackles the heavy subject of being in a coercive and psychologically abusive relationship. ELDR‘s poignant lyrics explore the confusing duality of love and fear, painting a vivid picture of the power dynamics at play. She describes feeling like a deer being hunted and teased, a metaphor that powerfully captures the emotional turmoil of such relationships. This narrative adds a profound layer of meaning to the track, transforming it into a storytelling vessel for personal and shared experiences.
The accompanying music video takes the impact of “Deer Skin” to another level. Set in an abandoned church and filmed in grainy black and white, the video makes a bold artistic statement. The use of this setting adds to the haunting atmosphere, while the choice of black and white film underscores the gravity of the subject matter. The video doesn’t shy away from difficult themes, exploring abuse, coercion, subjugation, and racism through a dance narrative that re-enacts a hunt. This visual accompaniment not only complements the song but also stands as a powerful piece of art in its own right.
“Deer Skin” is a testament to ELDR‘s ability to transform personal pain into powerful art. It’s a moving and evocative addition to her discography, showcasing her unique talent and emotional depth. Through both music and visuals, ELDR has created a piece that resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impression. Stay tuned with ELDR on social media for updates and more great music: Facebook – Instagram – Twitter – Spotify – YouTube – Website.
