released: september 13

genre: alternative

from: london, uk

label: ninja tune

a few thoughts: nilüfer yanya’s music often ponders on failed relationships, vulnerabilities through traumas, as she searches for clarity and peace. her lyrics over the years has often evoked feelings of of anxiety and deep melancholy, trying to make sense of herself, her reactions to situations and how she processes her emotions. on my method actor, nilüfer seems to find peace within the madness, coming to terms with things and being readier than ever to heal. with sweet, groovy and beautiful melodies throughout the album, she’s able to capture a warmth and acceptance on this record that feels natural. the timing is right, and she has created quite a beautiful and evocative album. the frankness on the opener “keep on dancing”, with the bitter lyrics and the somewhat unsettling guitar and groove make it a fitting way to open the album, while the shoegazey “like i say (i runaway)” is dynamic and frank in its lyricism, not giving people the time of day and energy when it doesn’t fit with her wants and needs. “my method actor” is an early highlight, with heavy guitar riffs and an emphatic groove that is just incredible throughout. the slow-paced, moody “binding” is a welcome change of pace, a slow-paced, melodic and reflective track. the guitar arpeggios and swelling strings on “mutations” are infectious utterly beautiful, while the reflective “ready for sun (touch)” is moody, string-led and melancholic, as she really captivates me with her soulful vocals throughout. “call it love” is a sweet, slow-paced track with incredible synths, while the lavish strings and moody “faith’s late” is another emotive moment on the album. “made out of memory”, with its skippy beat and driving guitar leads is another potent moment on the album. the grooves on “just a western” are groovy and with tons of personality, while “wingspan” closes the album out with a moody, reflective and ambient composition that is a fitting way to close things out. my method actor is nilüfer yanya’s most complete album to date. not only has she matured lyricially, but her compositions and songwriting abilities have evolved and improved so much. it’s great to see her continue developing her craft and i know she’s just going to get better and better.

the album: