Weyes Blood: Bridging Time Through Music and Contemplation



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Weyes Blood: Bridging Time Through Music and Contemplation
Weyes Blood: Bridging Time Through Music and Contemplation © Emma McIntyre/GettyImages

Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Weyes Blood, born Natalie Mering, exudes an ethereal presence, seamlessly weaving the influences of 1960s and 70s counterculture into her contemporary musical tapestry. Despite her deep admiration for the past, Weyes Blood expresses concern over the current generation's fixation on "the good old days," emphasizing the challenges it presents for those striving to navigate today's ever-evolving world.

As she embarks on her Holy Flux tour in the UK, Mering reflects on the disparities between the life experiences of her parents' generation and those faced by individuals her age. She highlights the shifting significance of traditional milestones, such as homeownership and the value of a college degree, underlining the profound changes that have taken place over the years.

Mering's perspective is nuanced, acknowledging her complex relationship with the past while recognizing the potential dangers of nostalgia, especially in the political sphere.

Timeless Tunes, Modern Messages

Weyes Blood’s music, a blend of timeless folk-rock and baroque-pop, draws comparisons to legendary artists like Karen Carpenter and Joni Mitchell.

However, her lyrical content remains firmly rooted in the present, addressing critical issues such as environmental concerns, the encroachment of technology on human relationships, and the pervasive feeling of isolation in modern society.

Her lockdown album, "And In the Darkness, Hearts Aglow," encapsulates these themes, earning accolades and topping year-end lists, surpassing industry heavyweights like Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift. The singer's upbringing, marked by a transition from a bohemian lifestyle to a more conservative, religious environment, plays a significant role in her artistic evolution.

From her early days in noise-rock and punk bands to her current status as a solo artist, Mering’s journey reflects a constant search for authentic expression and a desire to connect with audiences on a profound level.

With her upcoming UK tour, Weyes Blood aims to offer audiences a unique experience, blending her celestial sounds with visually stunning elements to create a space for reflection and catharsis. As she reflects on her multifaceted career and the changing landscape of music and culture, Mering remains optimistic about the future, drawing inspiration from the younger generation's search for authentic connection and creative expression, unbound by the constraints of internet culture.

In her transition from runway to concert stage, Weyes Blood continues to captivate audiences with her blend of past and present, proving that her music is a transcendent force, capable of bridging time and sparking contemplation in the hearts of listeners across generations.