Introduction to the Album

‘Every Video, Every Song’ showcases an artistic transition in Liyou’s work, delving deeper into ambient soundscapes. The second half of this album aligns closely with Liyou’s prior explorations, creating a rich atmospheric experience for listeners.

Track Structure and Composition

Comprising a collection of tracks that feel like scattered markers along an untraveled sea, the album’s latter half is characterized by its loose framework. The sequence begins with wordless pieces, or tracks where vocals are muted to the point of being mere whispers in the mix. For instance, “Imagined Kiss” follows “No Tide Aorta” and features a repetitive refrain of “Just say when,” which offers a semblance of structure yet remains largely unfocused.

Exploration of Emotional Tone

Preceding the album’s closing number, “Jokes About Marriage” evokes the earlier piano-centric balladry of the first half. However, instead of reaching a conclusive climax, it gradually dissipates into silence. The instrumental combination of soft synths and mournful saxophone contributes to an atmosphere reminiscent of distant sounds—a gentle breeze carrying faint noises from a nearby town, such as dogs barking and children crying.

A Unique Approach to Sound and Silence

Throughout the first six tracks of the album, silence is scarce. Soft synth pads and fading piano notes inhabit the spaces between songs, establishing an ambient continuity. The album’s title track diverges from this pattern with an unexpected opening; it starts with twelve seconds of rhythmic percussion, akin to nails tapping against glass. Suddenly, these sounds disappear into a profound silence.

This track then reemerges after twenty-three seconds with the resonation of a solitary chime, which quickly succumbs to a lack of sound. The composition continues to detach, marked by brief audio snippets and piano sounds that feel almost incidental. Toward its conclusion, the only lyrics surface—”Call me,” spoken gently, carrying a sense of melancholy as if laced with emotion.

Conclusion

‘Every Video, Every Song’ continues Liyou’s exploration of ambient music, inviting listeners into a reflective auditory journey that balances structure and dissolution. The album’s ability to evoke emotions through minimalistic instrumentation underscores Liyou’s artistry and further solidifies their place in contemporary music.