Enigmatic Los Angeles songstress Madeline Goldstein steps back into the spotlight, leaving a poignant imprint on the darkwave scene with her latest EP, Other World, thoughtfully curated by à La Carte Records.
At its essence, Other World is an intoxicating melange of charm and command. Though concise, it serves as a formidable artistic descendant of her first full-length debut, yet confidently carves its unique place as a breathtaking tour de force.
The titular track and single, “Other World” immerses its listeners in a mesmerizing dreamscape woven from the shards of erratic drum beats, echoing synthesizers, and the celestial aria of a soaring soprano. Goldstein’s main vocal thread, delivered with her trademark elegance, intensifies in passion as it surges towards the climaxing third act. The sparkling requiem draws from the deeply intimate realm of Goldstein’s solitude, echoing the emotionally charged ballads of musical theatre and the heightened drama of 80s romance anthems. The track reverberates with traces of The Motels, Aimee Mann, and Tuxedomoon, especially apparent in Byron Burchard’s saxophone epilogue, acting as an emblem and embodiment of tears.
As the song ascends towards its pinnacle, the chorus of backing vocals weaves and hovers above the sonic tapestry, heralding the distant saxophone’s soothing warmth to the track’s closure.
The monochrome visual accompaniment, crafted by director and cinematographer Tyler Carlin, portrays an enchanting, intimate dance between two women, with the second role embodied by Margot Rhodes (Mirror of Venus). The nature of their relationship remains tantalizingly elusive: are they rivals? Sisters? Lovers? Or perhaps they are merely apparitions within each other’s minds? Yet, their languid, abstract dialogue unfolds in a hypnotic ballet. Byron Burchard also graces the frame with his saxophone. Both the song and the video are steeped in the profound influence of David Lynch – and in keeping with this spirit, perhaps it’s more fitting to allow this Other World to remain a stunning enigma.
Watch the video for “Other World” below:
Goldstein’s creative potency pulsates with the radiant undertones of new wave, pop, and dark wave, infusing every chord with raw, palpable sentiment. Her vocal virtuosity and passion resonate with the dynamism and theatrics of iconic female pop figures and the grandeur of 80s stagecraft. Following her successful stint with Portland synthpop outfit Fringe Class, Madeline Goldstein released her groundbreaking solo full-length album, “Forget This” (2020), along with a recent single, “One More Day,” each embodying her distinct ethereal pop allure. Since this past January, à La Carte Records has proudly counted Goldstein among its cadre of rising artists.
The mesmerizing and enchanting single and EP “Other World,’ was produced by Matia Simovich at Infinite Power Studios in Los Angeles. The song is primed to capitalize on the surging momentum that Goldstein has methodically cultivated throughout her career, which includes exhaustive touring and forthcoming appearances at illustrious dark music festivals such as Substance LA and Chicago’s Sanctum Festival
Order the EP here.
This video releases in anticipation of Madeline Goldstein’s record release show at Zebulon Friday, June 16th – alongside More Ephemerol (who is also releasing a record) and special guest Secret Attraction and INHALT (DJ) (Matia Simovich). The free show is presented by Pretty But Wicked.
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