The lost and found self
Singaporean dream pop artist Linying recently released House Mouse. Consisting of four tracks, this EP is where Linying rediscovers her passion for creating and finds a sound that feels authentically her. House Mouse features ethereal soundscapes, soothing vocals that have been praised by the likes of Troye Sivan and lyrics that explore themes of heartbreak, happiness and self-discovery. This short EP is for anyone who wants to briefly sink into a soothing yet emotive world.
The first track “Creature” begins with static and peaceful guitar. There are pretty harmonies all throughout the song that are bound to make people daydream, which are particularly highlighted at the start thanks to minimal instrumentation. The first verse discusses the discomfort that results from happiness and fear coexisting. Linying sings “I wanna look but I’m scared of seeing / That the real me is actually looking back.” The only way to progress in the quest of self-discovery is to try new things, but past experiences can make this difficult. The instrumental builds during the first chorus until the synths and bassline are accompanied by drums and guitar. Everything comes together in the final chorus, complete with a gentle guitar solo and angelic vocal runs. The track ends with beeping synth and distorted guitar that rings out into space.
“Porcupine” starts with soft yet punchy vocals and subdued guitar. Shortly after, a groovy bassline slides in along with fast drums, both of which create an upbeat atmosphere. Linying talks about not wanting to lose herself in emotions, especially when she sings “Cause you know you gotta go whеn it gets ruined / Oh, I don’t wanna leave myself behind for a feeling.” She emphasizes the importance of people listening to and protecting themselves. The distorted tack piano adds to the piece’s funkiness and nicely plays with the bassline towards the end. “Take Me To Your House” features heavier drums and slightly muffled vocals that are similar to Phoebe Bridgers. Things quiet down when Linying sings “I think our luck is turning round / No one can touch us now.” Twinkling synth adds a whimsical quality to this intimate track, which strips down to bare bones at the end with nothing but synth and whisper-like vocals. The last bit sounds as if it could be one of the first drafts of the song.
The EP ends with “Happiness,” a track that ignites joy in Linying each time she hits play. With the bounciness of the instrumental and vocals, it is clear why this is the case. The rhythm of the vocals featured in the chorus is catchy and light, which is interesting considering the lyrics. “If it’s denial, and you’re cleaning up my mess / Why does it like, like, baby, like, like baby / Feel like happiness?” These lines hint towards a morally ambiguous relationship where chaos sparks joy. The bridge is a reimagining of the chorus if it had minimal instrumentation, with airy qualities such as bass and guitar that ring out and quintessential dream pop synth. The EP wraps up with one final chorus that subtly includes elements of the bridge and ends with one last guitar riff.
Linying’s latest release strikes a balance between melancholy and cheerfulness through its dreamy instrumentals and personal lyricism. House Mouse is a comforting listen for those who never feel quite at home in the world.
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