Alexandra Stréliski - Neo Romance
Secret City Records
Released March 31st, 2023
Neo: new OR
new or revived form
Romance: a feeling of excitement and mystery associated with love OR
A quality or feeling of mystery, excitement, and remoteness from everyday life
The Era of Romanticism was an artistic and intellectual movement originating in Europe and peaking in and around 1800-1850. In what would seem to be a social response to the Industrial Revolution, the Romantics emphasized emotion and individualism – placing the highest importance on the freedom of the artist to authentically express their sentiments and ideas. They prioritized the importance of and the inspirational qualities of nature, perhaps with an underlying paganistic node of influence.
I felt it quite necessary to breakdown the elements that Alexandra Stréliski has compiled into her latest release, Neo Romance. Without lyrics, we are forced in to a position in which we are wholly reliant on the feelings and emotions that are shared through the composer. By definition, this is the essence of Romanticism. The piano becomes the voice through which the story is told, and we are given a moment to experience that which so inspired the composer.
Neo Romance was primarily recorded in Rotterdam where Streliski did a deep dive into her family history. She discovered a lineage of romantic artists within her own ancestry – an enchanting and emotional experience for the listener to witness across multiple tracks. Upon the release of her second single Elegie, Streliski writes, “Elegie is a final farewell to someone you love. It’s a sad song filled with pure love. An ode to facing your vulnerability when things are shaking in your life. An homage to the immensity of the world.”
Stréliski’s work has the ability to capture a small moment of our emotional capacities in a jar and peer through it in a curious, mystical, and palpable lens. Her previous works have supported various moments throughout film and television including HBO’s Big Little Lies and Sharp Objects, Dallas Buyer’s Club, Demolition, and a feature at New York Fashion Week with Hugo Boss. Following her previous certified platinum and Juno Award-winning album INSCAPE, Neo Romance is sure to continue to deepen our authentic connection to the arts.
- Frankie Undseth
