At the root of a great singer-songwriter’s music is the ability to be vulnerable and communicate that raw emotion without flinching, which is why it might come as a surprise that Los Angeles-based musician Brookelen already has that locked in three songs, reaching a new high on the single “Numb.”
Releasing just ahead of her first solo show at the Silverlake Lounge on June 15, she’s commonly worked with other musicians as a manager and contributes to live shows around the LA area. But with “Numb,” she’s opening up in a way that spotlights a relatable clarity in the songwriting and the effortless cross between folk and dream pop.
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Contrary to the title, the track is anything but emotionally void. Opening with a drown-out guitar that sounds like it’s being played at the bottom of a well, ringing true to Brookelen’s dream pop descriptions but holding onto that introspective writing found in most folk artists. Elements of rock peek out early, but the second half moves away from the softer sound and takes off emotionally and musically to a breaking point. Eventually closing back on a vulnerable place, the resulting track seeks resolution while also lending a hand to listeners who can relate to the emotional resonance.
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When speaking about the release on Instagram, Brookelen said the single is “for anyone who’s ever felt dissociative; allowing myself the space to feel and recognize my feelings as worthy has truly changed my life.” The message certainly comes across, fully embracing the sad feeling and sense of being lost in the woods. But purely looking from an artistic standpoint, “Numb” marks the preexisting confidence in Brookelen and co’s music through thought-out production, mixing, and songwriting. “There’s always a new path forward, we’ve just got to take that first step, which is often the hardest, towards the light,” said Brookelen.
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“Numb” by Brookelen is out on all streaming services. For more on new music and her show on June 15, follow her on Instagram and TikTok.
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