DEBUT ALBUM REVIEW: Forgive Too Slow by Julia Sophie

Julia Sophie’s forgive too slow is a poignant testament to an artist who has navigated a labyrinth of personal and professional upheavals to arrive at a profound moment of authenticity. Available now via Ba Da Bing Records, Julia Sophie’s debut solo album is not just a collection of songs but a reflective journey through the embers of self-discovery and emotional rawness.

The album’s genesis is deeply rooted in Julia Sophie’s diverse and tumultuous career. Previously signed to a major international label, she later embarked on independent ventures, and these experiences, marked by disenchantment with fame and a longing for authentic artistic expression, form the core themes of this record: relationships, forgiveness, and self-reflection.

Musically, forgive too slow strikes a compelling balance between confessional songwriting and experimental electronica. As the album kicks off with “2am” and it sets the mood for the album. One immediately knows from the opener that forgive too slow is going to be filled with lush vocals, intricate beats, harmonious melodies, and sounds that will move the soul.

A track that lays bare Julia Sophie’s struggle with self-destructive tendencies, “numb” showcases the disconnection between her dreams and reality. The song’s electronic textures and haunting melodies create a sense of emotional chaos, mirroring the turbulence expressed in her lyrics.

“telephone” dives into themes of loss with a sombre elegance. Julia Sophie’s voice, both fragile and assertive, is enveloped by warm electronic soundscapes that underscore the song’s contemplative mood. Similarly, “falling” captures the complexities of love with a blend of intimacy and distance, revealing layers of vulnerability.

By forgive too slow’s end, there’s a sense of unresolved tension. Like the embers of a fire still smouldering, Julia Sophie does not offer neat resolutions but rather leaves one with a feeling of ongoing introspection. The final tracks suggest that while peace might be elusive, the journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity is underway.

forgive too slow is a testament to Julia Sophie’s resilience and artistic evolution. It’s an album that resonates with anyone who has grappled with the weight of their past and the struggle to break free from entrenched patterns. In embracing her messiness and imperfections, Julia Sophie delivers an album that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, marking a significant step in her ever-evolving musical journey.

Read A CONVERSATION WITH…Julia-Sophie

EDITOR’S NOTE: artist stylises their name, album, and songs in lower or upper case letters