On Midwest, Alexis Marsh – known and recognized for her work as a film composer, steps fully into her solo project, crafting an album that feels both intimate and cinematic.
Inspired by her transitions back and forth from Los Angeles to Cincinnati before ultimately making a home in the Midwest, the record encapsulates themes of movement, solitude and self-discovery. Marsh’s film scoring background allows the album to be infused with a rather cinematic quality, giving each track a sense of space and emotional depth.
This album begins with “15 Hr Drive,” a song that sets the stage with a melancholic and atmospheric tone. Its delicate production allows Marsh’s vocals to float effortlessly above the instrumentation. “Dark Streets, one of the most immersive tracks, unfolds with meditative patience, building tension with its minimalistic arrangement.
At the album’s heart lies “Midwest,” the title track and emotional centrepiece. It seamlessly weaves Marsh’s signature production style and poignant storytelling, evoking a sense of nostalgia and quiet resilience. Rather than lingering in the past, the song embodies movement, both literally and emotionally, capturing the tension between leaving something behind and embracing the unknown. Other standouts include “Pray To Me,” which combines ethereal vocals with a hazy, ambient backdrop, creating an intimate yet expansive listening experience. “Steady Hand” and “When We Go” highlight Marsh’s talent for crafting immersive soundscapes, where each note carries weight and intention.
Marsh takes an intensely hands-on approach to the album, performing all instrumentation and vocals, contributing to the creative control that makes Midwest feel so personal. Ultimately, this album is less about grand statements and quiet revelations. It’s an album that lingers, unfolding in subtle waves rather than demanding attention. Marsh constructs a sonic experience that shares its warmth with listeners, leaving an impression long after the final note fades.
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