Arliston releases ‘How in Heaven’ EP

London-based duo formed by musicians Jack and George, Arliston have carved a distinct niche for themselves by crafting deeply moving, melancholic songs with a unique sound. Their latest EP, How in Heaven, is a beautifully constructed five-track journey that seamlessly blends their diverse influences, resulting in a masterful and cohesive musical endeavour. Having earned critical acclaim with the release of three singles in the build up to the EP, the duo now presents their full project, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in its intended entirety.

Opening with the title track “How In Heaven,” the EP immediately envelops the audience in an immersive and inspiring indie rock soundscape. Dreamy electronic textures and percussive drum patterns create a hypnotic and transportive experience, highlighting Arliston’s signature songwriting and production talent. Jack Ratcliffe’s ethereal vocal style adds an otherworldly quality to the track, captivating listeners from the outset.

“451,” introduces an enthralling cinematic atmosphere that draws the listener deeper into Arliston’s sonic world. Erratic soundscapes collide with surreal and hypnotic interludes, crafting a subtly haunting soundscape that mirrors the dystopian narrative of the song. Jack Ratcliffe reveals that he was reading ‘Fahrenheit 451’ while writing the song, and the lyrics explore the feeling of being lost in the trappings of modern life, resonating eerily with the age of social media and self-doubt. Intricate instrumental textures, delicate piano chords and dynamic rhythms all contribute to the song’s enchanting allure, with layered voices in the chorus creating a blissful call-and-response effect.

“Pisco Sours” presents a delicate indie rock sound, characterised by delicate sonic textures, gentle rhythms and soft instrumentation. Jack’s emotive and rich vocals draw comparisons to esteemed artists like The National’s Matt Berninger and Bon Iver, infusing the track with a captivating and moving musical experience. As the song gradually builds in energy, Arliston showcases their ability to craft timeless explorations of modern indie rock while maintaining a thread of classic songwriting.

“Cashing Birds” features deep and velvety vocals that evoke a moving atmosphere, enveloped by a soft sonic tapestry built around the impassioned voice. With gentle drum patterns, warm piano chords and floating brass lines, the track is a breathtaking display of emotive songwriting delivered through a graceful and original sound.

The EP concludes with “Backwards,” the latest single from the project. Opening with haunting high synth lines and delicate piano chords, the song gradually builds with a slowly emerging drum beat, carried by a minimalist approach. Jack’s baritone vocals convey sentiments of social anxiety, pulling the listener into Arliston’s world. As the song crescendos into a wall of harmony, layers of sax, synths and guitars pulsate with electronic rhythms, leaving the listener completely dazzled in the experience.

Released under their own label, Sob Story Records, How in Heaven is a truly unique project that showcases the duo’s prolific and high-quality output, undoubtedly set to to win over a legion of fans. With an EP launch show scheduled for August at the iconic Green Note in Camden, everything seems to be pointing in the right direction for Arliston’s promising trajectory. Their highly original sound, musical talent and ability to create profoundly moving and resonant compositions confirms Arliston’s place as one of the most exciting acts emerging from the London music scene.

Listen to How in Heaven below