London-based duo Arliston, consisting of vocalist/instrumentalist Jack Ratcliffe and producer George Hasbury, unveils their debut album ‘Disappointment Machine’, a captivating exploration of unrequited love, heartbreak, and the painful echoes of “what if?” The album is a testament to their self-described role as “sad song specialists,” offering an introspective journey through minimalist pianos, ethereal synths, and Ratcliffe’s emotive baritone.
‘Disappointment Machine’ navigates the emotional complexities of life in one’s late twenties and early thirties, capturing the confusion and heartache that often accompany this period of transition. Each track is meticulously crafted, blending ambient tones and experimental textures to create a deeply immersive experience.
A standout moment is the track ‘Scratches,’ a delicate piano-driven ballad that lays bare the vulnerability and regret following a heated argument between lovers. This powerful track, and the album as a whole, evokes the soul-stirring sadness of artists like The National, Bon Iver, and Damien Rice, while also weaving in threads of hope and resilience.
“This one of the oldest songs on the album and is the only one written outside of that two-week window in November 2023. It’s a simple narrative about a married couple, who have an argument. One is waiting in the kitchen, “scratching up the table with a knife” (more in an absent-minded way than malicious!), waiting for the other to come back and see the automatic garden light to click on. Having faith that they will come back, but they never do.”
For those who appreciate emotionally raw and intricately arranged music, ‘Disappointment Machine’ is an essential listen—a poignant testament to both the fragility and strength of the human spirit.
