In a world that is rapidly evolving, it can be challenging for individuals to navigate the changing landscape and find their place. For singer-songwriter Weyes Blood, also known as Natalie Mering, this is a topic that resonates deeply. Influenced by the counterculture movements of the past, she recognizes the toxic nature of nostalgia and the difficulties of replicating the lives of previous generations. As she prepares to bring her Holy Flux tour to the UK, Weyes Blood reflects on the challenges of the present and the importance of empathy and hope.
Weyes Blood’s music is a soothing blend of folk-rock and baroque-pop, reminiscent of iconic artists like Karen Carpenter and Joni Mitchell. However, while her sound may harken back to a different era, her lyrical content is firmly rooted in the urgent concerns of today. From the planet’s wellbeing to the impact of technology on human relationships, she explores themes that resonate deeply with her audience. Her recent album, And In the Darkness, Hearts Aglow, has received critical acclaim, with The Times naming it the album of the year and The Observer describing it as “torch songs for the end of time.”
One of the challenges Weyes Blood addresses in her music is the difficulty of bringing about meaningful change in a gridlocked system. With technology playing an increasingly dominant role in our lives, she acknowledges the hurdles to making a tangible impact on the world. She also reflects on the changing times and the transition her parents made from the lo-fi world of hippies and punks to born-again Christianity during the conservative 1980s. This shift fascinates her and adds another layer to her exploration of societal changes.
Despite the challenges that come with a rapidly evolving world, Weyes Blood sees hope in the younger generation. She observes that many young people are focusing on creative inspiration rather than external validation through social media. She believes that communities centered around artistic expression and genuine connections still exist, and she places her faith in the intelligence and uniqueness of the younger generation. At her shows, she sees young kids seeking new forms of community outside of their phones, highlighting the potential for change and growth.
Weyes Blood’s journey as an artist has been a multifaceted one, with her experiencing various chapters in her musical career. From playing in punk bands to exploring ambient drone material, she has carved her path back to the future, showcasing different sides of her artistic vision. However, she admits missing the innocence and naivety of the DIY scene that existed before the advent of smartphone culture and internet prominence. She laments the shift towards assessing the value of art based on quantitative measures like likes and follows, rather than embracing it at face value.
In recent years, Weyes Blood has witnessed a resurgence of young people focusing on creative inspiration and seeking new forms of community. She believes that despite the challenges and changes, there is still a space for genuine artistic expression and connection. This optimism is reflected in her performances, which she describes as a secular communion. Through her music, she aims to transport her audience to a different world, where catharsis and extraction of different emotions are possible.
As Weyes Blood embarks on her upcoming tour, she brings with her a message of empathy and hope. She encourages her audience to navigate the changing world with an understanding of the challenges it presents and a belief in the power of artistic expression to bring about change. While the nostalgia for the past may be toxic, she reminds us that the present offers opportunities for growth and connection. With her well-oiled concerts and captivating performances, Weyes Blood invites her audience to join her on a wild journey of introspection and transformation.
